Alioune Diagne's project for the first Senegalese Pavilion at the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, 2024.
The project, titled "Bokk – Bound", conceived by Alioune Diagne and curator Massamba Mbaye is a response to the theme of the 60th International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere. In Wolof, Bokk means "what is shared", "held in common", as well as family ties. The term Mbokk, linguistically related to Bokk and denoting kinship and brotherhood, is also central to their reflections.
A selection of paintings together forming a four-by-twelve-meter puzzle-like display calls to unite and to cultivate bonds by connecting through universal challenges and values. From clandestine Mediterranean migrations to escalating poverty, resources depletion, racism and mutual dependence, some poignant scenes emerge from the works, shedding light on contemporary disasters happening in total international indifference. These striking representations stand in stark contrast to the joyful life scenes depicted and celebrating the artist's cherished values: the education of children, the legacy of traditions, and the sense of community. It is in the portraiture of women that the painter finds the embodiment of these profound ideals.
Alioune Diagne was born in in Fatick, Senegal, in 1985. He is an artist whose work is anchored in his culture and that has a distinctive visual identity. His great creativity dates back to his childhood, but his admission to the École Nationale des Beaux-Arts de Dakar in 2008 decisively guided him towards an artistic career. 2013 was a decisive year for Diagne who then created his own mode of expression: the "figuro-abstro" style. He started depicting figurative scenes using abstract signs painted in bright tones. These signs make up both the backdrop of the paintings and the inside of the figures. To Diagne, they are unconscious motifs that convey meaning and emotions. With this new kind of language, a unique relationship is established with the viewer. The latter must be physically involved in the process, move around or squeeze their eyes in order to reconstruct the image.
The Senegalese painter is interested in several themes that he gathers together in "collections". Women on Senegalese market squares, the modou-modou—African immigrant workers—the groups of children you come across in the street. These are all inspiring themes for him. His works of art convey a vibrant and aesthetic vision of Senegalese's daily life but also of the African diaspora. His social commitment is perceptible in his work that encourages us to question central issues such as ecology, the place of women in society, racism and the notion of transmission or heritage. In 2024, the artist represented his country on the Senegalese Pavilion at 60th International Art Exhibition - La Biennale di Venezia.
