Luanda - The visual exhibition “Marimbar”, by Angolan documentary photographer, Nélia dos Santos Azevedo, has been on display since Tuesday, Oct 8, at the Alcobendas Art Center in Madrid, Spain.
According to a statement, the sample emerges from a deep reflection on the sense of belonging and aims to address colonial trauma.
The project establishes a bridge to revisit history, recognize different perspectives and build a new narrative that is more conscious and aligned with the present.
The title Marimbar refers to the musical instrument originating in Angola, which traveled with the African diaspora in the 15th century.
“This project is an opportunity to reflect on the historical and cultural impact of the African diaspora, promoting intercultural dialogue and the creation of a more inclusive and conscious future, whether in Spain or in another part of the world", it reads.
“Marimbar” is a project developed as a final work for a master’s degree in Photography and Artistic Projects, at the Madrid International Festival of Photography and Visual Arts (PhotoEspaña), which can be visited until October 21st.
Artist Nélia dos Santos Azevedo was selected as a finalist for the ENAIRE foundation 2024 Prize and was nominated by publisher Dalpine for the Star Photobook Dummy Award - Fundácion PSV 2024.
In recent years, the visual artist has worked as creative director of several art and advertising studios in Portugal and has photographs in private collections in Brazil, Angola, Portugal and Spain.
At the same time, the artist is developing a transatlantic project in cooperation with the Angolan Embassy in Spain, entitled 8º Paralelo Sul, as part of the 50th anniversary of Angola's independence.
The project explores the connection between Angola and the Brazilian Northeast, with the aim of highlighting, in contemporary times, the cultural heritage that accompanied the African Diaspora in the 15th century and how it returned to Angola.
The project aims to highlight the parallels and processes of integration of this heritage into current contexts.
CPM/OHA/CF/jmc
