Maurice Mbikayi, The Aesthetic Observer (2021)

In this figure’s clothing we recognize keys recuperated from old computer keyboards, a reference to the raw materials needed in today’s technology: it is still exploited workers who extract the ores from the ground in Congo, thus enabling the Western way of life. And afterwards, the West often dumps the materials back in Africa as toxic waste. Mbikayi collects the remains and uses them in his art. In this way, he not only denounces this skewed situation but also pays tribute to the resilience of the African people, who have found endless ways to make the most of limited resources. The ‘aesthetic observer’ is a flâneur and a dandy, an imagined cousin to the famous Congolese sapeurs. The dandy pays close attention to his appearance, as a sign of resistance and independence.

[Kathy]

A very interesting sculpture.

[Esther Rosenberg]

Fun shot

[Diana]

A fun shot and very interesting narrative.

[Babs]

What a fun sculpture.

[Gosia]

Interesting story

[Dione Giorgio]

An important work of art for what it represents. I like the story which is very sad considering it is still happening in parts of the world

[mittens (Marilyn)]

That is so interesting looking. Great find and capture.

[bkb in the city]

Great piece of art

[Fisher Family]

An interesting sculpture and interesting information!

Ian

[Nina Ganci]

very creative artwork

[Merrelyn]

It's an interesting sculpture.

[Bep]

Heel bijzonder...

[Heather]

What a great visual statement!

[Mickey Anderson]

Amazing work.

[Vesna]

Sad.. We know so little about life in Africa, although we are the same family and problem of Africa tomorow will be problem of whole world.

[Ann H. LeFevre]

A subtly clever way to somewhat poke fun at the people who are supposedly so concerned over human rights and yet unwilling to give up their modern conveniences to make sure it happens.