Exhibits: UBUNTU - I am because we are

Thursday, June 28, 2018 – Saturday, September 22, 2018

by Manny Martins-Karman

Ubuntu* is an African word meaning "humanity". It is often translated as "I am because we are." Using the simplest forms of visual language − colour, line, and shape − this exhibit is an abstract representation of humanity through recognition of others in their uniqueness and differences. Shapes begin talking to each other – defining themselves by their slight differences. These shapes and colours aren't just marks that I like or hope you will like, they're interacting together in the simplest form of visual language to depict the oneness of humanity.

We live in an interconnected world, and nothing happens in isolation. An event in one place cannot be contained by borders; it spreads around mountains and across oceans. It sends people fleeing in search of places to breathe, live, and just be.

*From the Nguni language; made popular by Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and others, the word refers at its heart to the connectedness of humanity.

For more information: CANVASs July/August Newsletter

See concurrent exhibit: My Will Remains

Opening day: Thursday, June 28, 7:30–9:30PM

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