Efie Gallery Presents Abdoulaye Konaté’s Debut Solo Exhibition In The Middle East
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See the majestic art of Abdoulaye Konaté at Efie Gallery
Efie Gallery, a vibrant contemporary art space in Dubai that champions artists of African descent, has announced its representation of the trailblazing Malian artist Abdoulaye Konaté. His upcoming solo exhibition, Sambadio, runs from 10 October 2024, to 6 January 2025, featuring a monumental 9-metre artwork inspired by the poignant final track of Ali Farka Touré’s iconic 1976 album, Le Jeune Chansonnier du Mali.
Paying Homage
The song, “Sambadio,” honours farmers through lyrics that convey a father’s heartfelt plea for his son to respect the earth. Konaté’s latest creations echo these themes, integrating elements of Bedouin culture and celebrating the deep connection between the land and its people, drawing parallels between West African and Middle Eastern heritage.
Born in Mali in 1953, Konaté is renowned for his large-scale textile installations crafted from woven and dyed fabrics that reflect his cultural roots. His work skillfully combines abstract and figurative elements, tackling socio-political and environmental issues while maintaining a personal touch.
In New York
His pieces are housed in esteemed collections worldwide, including the Centre Pompidou in Paris and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Accompanying the exhibition is a catalogue featuring contributions from notable writers like Simon Njami, Ousseynou Wade, and Professor Yacouba Konaté, enriching the discourse around his work.
In a further exciting development, Efie Gallery will debut at the Abu Dhabi Art Fair from 20 to 24 November 2024. At booth M1, art enthusiasts can view a new piece by Konaté, along with his 2023 work Tunisie. The booth will also highlight stunning wood sculptures by the celebrated artist El Anatsui, alongside innovative pieces by Emirati artist Dr. Mohamed Yousif, who is making his art fair debut.
Since its establishment in 2021 and the opening of its permanent space in 2022, Efie Gallery has become a significant platform for showcasing Africa’s artistic talent. Through a dynamic residency program and diverse exhibitions, the gallery promotes cross-cultural exchange, supporting both established and emerging artists from Africa and the diaspora.