"Unveiling the Interconnected Narrative:
Kabeel Matta's Exploration of African Archives, Looting Artefacts and Identity through Innovative Art Forms and Soundscapes during he's Berlin Art Institute Residency, October 17th - October 8th, 2023.
Studio Installation, Berlin Art Institute. Multimedia on wall, 08.2023.
Drawing inspiration from Tim Stanley's 2012 work, this residency research delves into the chilling atrocities of King Leopold II during the Scramble for Africa. Through this body of work, I navigate the complex themes of sexuality, identity, and history, presenting a deconstructed family portrait.
Incorporating the painting 'Dog Women' by Paula Ruga, I pay homage to my mother, who confronted mental illness and trauma, leaving an indelible mark on my life. This studio installation serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience we inherit from those who paved our way.
untitled, ink & paint on board, 08.2023.
Rage, Perfomance installation.08.2023.
Rave, ink on paper. 08.2023
Multimedia Installation collage on wall, 08, 2023.
Installation Crop. Multimedia on wall. 08.2023.
untitled, ink on board, 08.2023.
Image creation Collage,Ink on paper. 08.2023.
The collaborative soundscape serves as an exploration of complex intercultural dynamics, familial relationships, and the intersection of identity and sexuality. Produced by Flemish Fetish and artistically directed by Kabeel Matta, blending elements of collaboration, Congolese culture, racial identity, and personal experiences. It offers a nuanced narrative that challenges societal norms and sheds light on the intricacies of human connection and self-discovery.
The use of new media, sound mixing, and audio self-portraiture embodies a multimedia approach to storytelling, allowing for a rich and immersive experience for the audience. Through the medium of sound, this work can capture the essence of emotions, histories, and personal journeys, fostering a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs experienced within the context of the Congolese and Coloured communities.
By delving into the intricate relationship between a Congolese father and his Coloured son, the soundscape navigates themes of cultural heritage, generational differences, and the fluidity of sexuality. It highlights the challenges of reconciling traditional values with contemporary perspectives, and how these tensions can influence one's sense of self and belonging.
Moreover, the emphasis on the body as a site for exploration and expression I used to signify an intimate reflection on the physical and emotional aspects of identity formation. The focus on the body may serve as a means of reclaiming agency and challenging societal constructs that attempt to impose limitations on how we perceive and express ourselves.
In essence, this project aimed to dissect the intricacies of human experience, culture, and self-acceptance.
