Amsterdam
Completed

Discover The Black Archives x Yinka Ilori x Sonsbeek Exhibition: Colonial Histories and Contemporary Art in Arnhem

Uncover the intricate links between forced colonial labor and Dutch estates through powerful artistic expressions.

Delve into the impactful exhibition, 'The Black Archives x Yinka Ilori x Sonsbeek', presented at Stadsvilla Sonsbeek in Arnhem. This unique collaboration unveils overlooked histories of colonial exploitation, forced labor, and the deep connections to local Dutch estates. Visitors can explore a collection of compelling works by contemporary artists that challenge historical narratives and highlight critical discussions around financial reparations.

About The Black Archives x Yinka Ilori x Sonsbeek 20 - 24 at The Black Archives in Amsterdam

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for The Black Archives x Yinka Ilori x Sonsbeek 20 - 24 at The Black Archives in Amsterdam

Exhibition summary

An exhibition designed by Yinka Ilori and curated by The Black Archives, exploring hidden histories of forced colonial labor and slavery connected to the Sonsbeek park estates in Arnhem. The exhibition features works by several contemporary artists and highlights the financial reparations owed for colonial exploitation.

Curatorial context

This exhibition, presented at Stadsvilla Sonsbeek in Arnhem, delves into the often-overlooked histories of forced colonial labor and slavery that are intertwined with the estates of Sonsbeek and Zypendaal. While these locations are now public parks known for their landscapes and mansions, they were once country houses for Dutch nobility whose wealth was built upon the unfree labor of enslaved people in Suriname, Indonesia, and other colonies. The exhibition was designed by Yinka Ilori, with content curated by The Black Archives and support from Erfgoed Gelderland and Sonsbeek 20 - 24. Key to the exhibition is the exploration of financial reparations. An open letter and a calculated invoice for colonial forced labor, amounting to 9.5 million, were created by Mitchell Esajas of The Black Archives and curator Amal Alhaag of Sonsbeek 20-24, highlighting the economic legacies of colonialism. The exhibition showcases work by artists Brian Elstak & Lawine, Leonel Piccardo, Richard Kofi, Ishfarah Esseboom, and Jessica de Abreu, bringing contemporary perspectives to these historical narratives.

Admission and ticket notes

The exhibition can be visited for free from Tuesday to Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM at Stadsvilla Sonsbeek. Opening hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 11:00 to 17:00. Contact can be made for tours outside the program.

The Black Archives x Yinka Ilori x Sonsbeek 20 - 24 key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for The Black Archives x Yinka Ilori x Sonsbeek 20 - 24 at The Black Archives in Amsterdam

Venue
The Black Archives
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
Jul 20, 2021 – Aug 29, 2021
Artist line / attribution
The exhibition features work by Brian Elstak & Lawine, Leonel Piccardo, Richard Kofi, Ishfarah Esseboom, and Jessica de Abreu, with design by Yinka Ilori and curation by The Black Archives.
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