AKKA Project collaborates with Ca’ Pesaro, the International Gallery of Modern Art and Africa First by Serge Tiroche

Art Africa Magazine, 19 September 2023
We are delighted to share with you the incredible journey of the AFRICA 1:1 LAB Artists’ Residency Program, a collaboration between the AKKA Project, Africa First, and Ca’ Pesaro. This unique initiative, which immersed five talented young African artists in the vibrant art scene of Venice, has culminated in a remarkable exhibition that has been nothing short of extraordinary.
 
Alexandre Kyungu, Nzoloko Comme Reflet à Venise, 2023. Installation shot from Africa 1:1, Five African Artists at Ca’ Pesaro. Courtesy of AKKA Project and Africa First. Photographer: Andrea Avezzù
 
A Residency Like No Other
From March 15th to May 18th, 2023, five promising artists from Kenya, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zimbabwe, had the privilege of participating in an inspiring residency at the AKKA Project premises. These artists were given the opportunity to explore Venice’s artistic treasures and absorb the city’s creative spirit. The residency provided a fertile ground for these artists to experiment, collaborate, and cultivate their artistic visions.
Ngugi Waweru, Filling the Holes, 2023. Installation shot from Africa 1:1, Five African Artists at Ca’ Pesaro. Courtesy of AKKA Project and Africa First. Photographer: Andrea Avezzù
 
The Grand Finale: The Exhibition
The culmination of this incredible journey was the opening of the exhibition at Ca’ Pesaro on May 19th, 2023. It was a momentous occasion where the artists’ hard work and dedication bore fruit. The exhibition showcased the remarkable talents of Option Nyahunzvi (b. 1992 Zimbabwe), Pamela Enyonu (b. 1985 Uganda), Alexandre Kyungu (b. 1992 DRC), Boniface Maina (b. 1987 Kenya), and Ngugi Waweru (b. 1987 Kenya).
Visitors were treated to a sensory feast of creativity, innovation, and diverse artistic expressions. The pieces on display were a testament to the profound impact of the residency program on these budding artists. The resonance between their work and the overarching theme of the Architecture Biennale was nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Option Nyahunzvi, Black Gondolier, 2023. Installation shot from Africa 1:1, Five African Artists at Ca’ Pesaro. Courtesy of AKKA Project and Africa First. Photographer: Andrea Avezzù
 
A Resounding Success
The AFRICA 1:1 LAB Artists’ Residency Program has been a resounding success on all fronts. It not only provided these artists with a platform to showcase their exceptional talents but also enriched the Venice art scene with their unique perspectives.
The collaboration between the AKKA Project, Africa First, and Ca’ Pesaro has demonstrated the power of cultural exchange and creative collaboration. It is heartening to witness the transformative journey these artists undertook, from their first day at the residency to the remarkable conclusion at the Ca’ Pesaro exhibition.
Pamela Enyonu, Permesso, 2023. Installation shot from Africa 1:1, Five African Artists at Ca’ Pesaro. Courtesy of AKKA Project and Africa First. Photographer: Andrea Avezzù
 
Time is Running Out
If you haven’t had the chance to experience this extraordinary exhibition, we urge you to visit Ca’ Pesaro before it closes its doors on October 1st, 2023. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the fruits of this exceptional residency program and celebrate the boundless talent of these young African artists.
Maina Boniface, San Mùndù Piazza, 2023. Installation shot from Africa 1:1, Five African Artists at Ca’ Pesaro. Courtesy of AKKA Project and Africa First. Photographer: Andrea Avezzù
 
For more information, please visit AKKA Project.