Exploring the profound visual narratives in Isaac Julien's latest video installation:
Trailer: Once Again… (Statues Never Die)
Shrouded in mystery, beauty, elegance and critical thought; Isaac Julien's newest series Once Again…(Statues Never Die) is nothing short of genius. It is rare for me to be so enthralled by a piece, that it feels all consuming. However, when I stepped into the latest exhibition at Galerie Ron Mandos I was moved to a place of deep introspection and adoration. The exhibition comprises two elements : a video installation which is accompanied by several large-scale film stills. The photographs depict key moments within the film; showcasing raw emotive beauty captured through meticulous composition and framing.
As visitors enter the gallery they are immediately greeted by the striking presence of the large scale photographs, offering a glimpse of what awaits them in the next room. Each photograph eloquently encapsulates the essence of the narrative in its most visually captivating form. These photographs invite viewers into conversations surrounding the manner in which African Material culture has influenced the black cultural movement. The transition towards the video installation fosters a solitary and intimate experience. The space is transformed by the two - screen display which is illuminated by reflective walls, offering multiple viewpoints. The curation of this setting invites viewers to fully immerse themselves in Julien's cinematic world. No longer mere observers, visitors are invited to become active participants in the unfolding narrative, engaging with the art on a deeply personal level.
Installation Photography by Jonathan de Waart
The film delves into the relationship between Dr. Albert C. Barnes, a US collector and exhibitor of African material culture, and the revolutionary cultural critic and philosopher, Alain Locke (1885 - 1994). Often referred to as the father of the **Harlem Renaissance, Locke's writings on the meaning and value of African material culture served as key catalysts for the movement's exploration and celebration of African American identity and artistic expression. Utilizing Julien's thorough investigation of the Barnes Foundation archives, the documentary explores the interconnected influence of Locke's political ideology and cultural initiatives alongside Albert E. Barnes's innovative art collection efforts and commitment to accessible, democratic education for all. This examination sheds light on the profound impact of their collaboration on the artistic landscape of the time.
I struggle to verbalize the affect this film has upon me; the feeling is ineffable. Each and every viewing experience leaves an echo within me; whereby I feel deeply moved. I naturally gravitate towards works which operate on the intersection between beauty, critical thought and political intervention - I believe it is within this moment of vulnerability which can inspire change. Which, perhaps, is arguably one of the most important reasons to create art. Julien embodies this sentiment entirely. The most striking element within the film is the nuanced depiction of the complex histories of African Material culture. The piece is multi layered; showcasing varying dimensions through a scope engrained with care, delicacy and beauty. The result of this? Profound visual narratives which surpass typical boundaries of film. The framing, dance between monochrome/colour, musical score, and multi screen display leave one speechless and inspired.
I believe this work to be of utmost importance for a multitude of reasons. Considerations may include, but are not limited to: the sociopolitical ramifications, aesthetic celebrations and its potential to provoke critical discourse on contemporary issues. It is through the seamless integration which merges film, sculpture, music, photography, dance, theater and painting which has granted Isaac Julien the well deserved adjective of groundbreaking.
Isaac Julien KBE RA (GB, 1960) has led an impressive career in terms of his artistic pursuits as well as his contributions to academia. The London born filmmaker first received critical global acclaim after producing his 1989 documentary-drama exploring author Langston Hughes and the Harlem Renaissance titled Looking for Langston. This work attracted a fast growing fan base while his 1991 debut feature ‘Young Soul Rebels’ won the Semaine de la Critique prize at the Cannes Film Festival. Most recently (2023), Tate Britain curated a retrospective exhibition featuring the artist's extensive body of work spanning more than four decades. This served as a monumental hallmark for the artist as it was his first expansive presentation within the United Kingdom. Julien has previously exhibited at noteworthy venues including; Museum of Modern Art, New York (2013), Art Institute of Chicago (2013), Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego (2012), and Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris (2005).
Furthermore, Julien's dedication to the arts has earned him numerous accolades, including The Royal Academy of Arts Charles Wollaston Award in 2017 and a knighthood in Queen Elizabeth II's Honours List of 2022. In the same year, he was honored with the prestigious Kaiserring Goslar Award, strengthening his position as an integral visionary in the art world.
I do not use the word visionary lightly, however, this praise is substantiated through the work. With each frame and installation, Julien pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, inviting us to engage with complex narratives and contemplate the interconnectedness of culture, identity, and history. This exhibition serves as a reminder of the transformative potential of art to transcend boundaries and illuminate the human experience. If you find yourself in Amsterdam, I highly recommend visiting this exhibit - on view until April 14, 2024.
**The Harlem Renaissance was a cultural, social, and artistic movement that emerged in the early 20th century, primarily in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City. It spanned the 1920s and into the mid-1930s. During this period, Harlem became a vibrant center for African American literature, music, theater, and visual arts. The movement marked a significant cultural awakening, celebrating African American heritage and identity, and it contributed to the development of a distinctive African American artistic and intellectual community.
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