A World in Common: Mozambican Mário Macilau in group exhibition in Berlin

Photographer Mario Macilau will be one of the participants in the acclaimed group exhibition “A World in Common – Contemporary African Photography”, which will be on display at C/O Berlin from February 1 to May 7.

’A World in Common’ presents twenty-three African and African diaspora artists from different generations and geographical contexts. Inspired by Africa’s rich cultures and its current socio-political landscap,. They are: Kelani Abass, Malala Andrialavidrazana, Atong Atem, Edson Chagas, Kudzanai Chiurai, Rotimi Fani-Kayode, Maïmouna Guerresi, Hassan Hajjaj, Délio Jasse, Samson Kambalu, Kiripi Katembo, Lebohang Kganye, Sabelo Mlangeni, Santu Mofokeng, Fabrice Monteiro, Aïda Muluneh, Wura-Natasha Ogunji, George Osodi, Dawit L. Petros, Zina Saro-Wiwa, Khadija Saye and Mario Macilau.

With his deeply sensitive and critical work, Macilau joins this group of artists whose works open new perspectives on Africa, exploring questions of identity, memory, tradition and transformation.

“A World in Common” refers to the philosophy of Cameroonian scholar Achille Mbembe, who calls for us to imagine “a world in common” by “thinking the world from Africa.” Over one hundred works challenge the western-oriented conception of the world, exploring alternative historical narratives that are deeply rooted in the diverse experiences, philosophies, and knowledge systems of the African continent.

The exhibition is structured in three thematic sections: “Identity and Tradition”, “Counter-histories” and “Imagined Futures”, allowing an immersion in the past, present and speculative future of the continent.

Mario Macilau’s participation in the exhibition not only reinforces his trajectory as one of the leading names in contemporary African photography, but also broadens the understanding of the complexity of Africa, away from simplistic and colonial narratives. His works, which reveal stories of lives, landscapes and social changes, invite the viewer to take a closer and more empathetic look at the continent.

According to Mario Macilau, “participating in this group exhibition goes beyond simply showing my work; it is a gesture of expanding the dialogue. Each work is part of a broader conversation, where different perspectives intertwine, creating a network of meanings that reinforce each other. In this space, art becomes a vehicle for the exchange, not only of ideas, but also of experiences and reflections that transcend the individual and open the way for the collective”.

“This participation is also an act of resistance,” continues Macilau. “By giving visibility to marginalized stories, we offer a platform for narratives that are often silenced, revealing the realities of those who have been forgotten by history. Representing the voiceless is an ethical and political commitment, an effort to rewrite the stories that society has chosen to ignore.”

Macilau also emphasizes that “I am honoured to exhibit alongside artists that I consider brothers, friends and colleagues, with whom I share not only the craft of art, but also the mission of affirming in Berlin that art has the transformative power to illuminate those who usually live in the shadows. Art, at this moment, becomes a collective force for change, capable of amplifying invisible voices and redefining social and cultural narratives in a profound and impactful way.”

Mario Macilau’s work is characterized by its emotional intensity and a deep connection with the social and cultural issues that shape Mozambican and African reality. His images evoke a sense of urgency and contemplation, transforming the everyday into something monumental and, at the same time, intimate.

With a unique approach, Macilau uses photography not only as a means of documenting, but as a tool to promote reflection on identity, memory and social transformation. His art goes beyond the surface, touching the deepest layers of human experience, while dismantling the stigmas and challenges often imposed on Africa.

?A World in Common’ is c urated by Osei Bonsu, curator of international art at Tate Modern, and Cale Garrido, guest curator at the C/O Berlin Foundation. It will soon be on display in one of the most prestigious spaces dedicated to photography and contemporary art in Europe:  C/O Berlin.

Mario Macilau is one of Mozambique’s most prominent photographers, recognized for his unique sensitivity and critical approach to the social and cultural issues of his country and the African continent. His often poetic and immersive photography goes beyond simple documentation, creating a visual narrative that challenges the viewer to rethink conventional histories and representations of Africa. With works that have been exhibited internationally, Macilau is a vital voice in contemporary African art, exploring the complexity of identity and social transformation in the African context.

 

Source: O Paìs