In the heart of the contemporary art scene, the name María Magdalena Campos-Pons resonates with a fusion of cultural heritage and spiritual reverence. Born in 1959 in Matanzas, Cuba, and now residing in Nashville, Tennessee, Campos-Pons has carved a unique niche for herself in the artistic landscape. Her latest solo exhibition, “I Heard the Spirits’ Voices/Escuché la Voz de Los Espíritus” hosted by Galerie Barbara Thumm, embarks on a journey that transcends geographical boundaries and delves deep into the realms of spiritual connectivity.
Running from April 28th to June 24th, 2024, “I Heard the Spirits’ Voices/Escuché la Voz de Los Espíritus” invites viewers to immerse themselves in the intricate tapestry of Campos-Pons’ artistic vision. At the core of this exhibition lie two captivating works, drawing inspiration from vibrant legacies and the rich tapestry of cultural amalgamation. Having garnered attention at prestigious platforms like the Sharjah Biennial in 2023, Campos-Pons’ creations serve as poignant reflections on the dynamics of creolization.
Central to the exhibition is the multi-channel video installation titled “Family Whisper.” Here, Campos-Pons ingeniously weaves together narratives from diverse spiritual planes, offering viewers a glimpse into the interconnectedness of human existence. The video unfolds across three screens, each representing a distinct spiritual realm: Babalú Ayé, Obalata, and the vast expanse of the oceanic horizon. Through this juxtaposition, Campos-Pons navigates the liminal spaces between earthly realities and metaphysical realms, inviting contemplation on the cyclical nature of existence.
One cannot delve into Campos-Pons’ work without encountering the profound reverence she holds for her cultural heritage and spiritual lineage. In “I Heard the Spirits’ Voices/Escuché la Voz de Los Espíritus” the artist pays homage to the Yoruba goddess Oshun, invoking her presence through the ancestral symbol of sunflowers. This invocation serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring connections between humanity and the divine, transcending temporal and spatial confines.
Beyond the aesthetic allure of her creations, Campos-Pons’ art serves as a conduit for dialogue and introspection. Through her intricate visual narratives, she challenges viewers to confront notions of identity, belonging, and interconnectedness. In an era marked by globalization and cultural exchange, “I Heard the Spirits’ Voices/Escuché la Voz de Los Espíritus” stands as a testament to the enduring power of artistic expression in fostering cross-cultural understanding and empathy.
Campos-Pons’ exploration of liminality extends beyond the confines of her artwork, permeating every facet of her creative process. Drawing from her own experiences of migration and cultural hybridity, she deftly navigates the threshold between past and present, tradition and innovation. In doing so, she invites viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and cultural exploration, transcending the boundaries of time and space.
As viewers navigate the immersive landscape of “I Heard the Spirits’ Voices/Escuché la Voz de Los Espíritus” they are confronted with a tapestry of narratives that blur the lines between reality and myth. Through her masterful manipulation of imagery and sound, Campos-Pons creates a sensorial experience that transcends linguistic barriers, speaking directly to the soul.
In a world increasingly defined by division and discord, María Magdalena Campos-Pons’ “I Heard the Spirits’ Voices/Escuché la Voz de Los Espíritus” serves as a beacon of hope and unity. Through her art, she reminds us of the inherent interconnectedness of all beings, transcending cultural, geographical, and spiritual boundaries. In embracing the liminality of existence, Campos-Pons invites us to embrace the beauty of diversity and celebrate the rich tapestry of human experience.
In conclusion, “I Heard the Spirits’ Voices/Escuché la Voz de Los Espíritus” encapsulates María Magdalena Campos-Pons’ unwavering commitment to exploring the intersections of culture, spirituality, and identity. Through her evocative visual narratives, she invites viewers on a transformative journey, urging us to embrace the liminal spaces where past, present, and future converge. As we navigate the complexities of our world, let us draw inspiration from Campos-Pons’ profound insights and celebrate the boundless potential of human creativity and connection.
“I Heard the Spirits’ Voices/Escuché la Voz de Los Espíritus”
Galeria Barbara Thumm
Markgrafenstrasse 68
D-10969 Berlin
About CANY:
Cuba Art NY (CANY) is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt organization that promotes the work of contemporary Cuban born artists living outside of Cuba.
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