Samuel Fosso & El Anatsui: Afro Chic
Afro Chic was a rich and colourful show that payed homage to both African art and fashion.
It coincided with the critically acclaimed Africa Remix exhibition at London’s Hayward Gallery, where, amongst others, African artist Samuel Fosso’s photographic work explored various fictitious personas and guises, resulting in pieces that were both witty and ironic. One of Fosso’ most striking and infamous poses is Le Chef, a satirical take on a traditional African chieftain. Featuring animal-print dress and boldly coloured African textiles, the image is a vivid piece of art, and this became the focal point of the Africa Remix exhibition. Le Chef was recreated in the largest window on Oxford Street with Fosso himself posing live in the installation. His work was followed by West African artist El Anatsui’s metal cloths on 13 March, which were made from thousands of bottle tops. Anatsui’s work was also featured as part of the Africa Remix exhibition.
