Roots in the Sky at HOME
Maja Lorkowska, Exhibitions EditorBook now
Roots in the Sky
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HOME’s latest exhibition, Roots in the Sky is a curatorial project by British-Nigerian artist Tunji Adeniyi-Jones.
The show takes its cues from the Adeniyi-Jones’ own vibrant practice, one that is conceptually rooted in the ancient history of West Africa and mythology, and visually draws on modernist styles like Cubism.
Roots in the Sky delves into themes that resonate with the layered identities of the Black diaspora. Through a compelling mix of painting, sculpture, and drawing, the show explores concepts of cultural pluralism, mythology, and lineage. It’s a journey that moves beyond simple narratives, embracing the nuance of collective memory and personal stories. The artists in the show were invited to consider travel, hybridity and the diasporic experience with a range of results that ultimately complement each other on display.
Adeniyi-Jones provides more context for the exhibition: “Our artistic roots are rarely as individual as wider culture might lead us to believe. Each of our stories shares points of departure or arrival, and revolves around a constant interpretation of the past, present and speculative future.” Interconnectivity is therefore a key theme running through the works on display.
He has brought together new and recent works from ten contemporary artists spanning the United States, Europe, and West Africa, crafting a dialogue that is rich and expansive. The show is a fantastic chance for local audiences to connect with a global conversation: from Jade de Montserrat’s word-based works and Tschabalala Self’s figurative pieces in paint and thread, to Joy Labinjo’s luscious hues and Nengi Omuku’s thoroughly painterly works on sanyan cloth.
The exhibiting artists are: Alvaro Barrington, Jade de Montserrat, Ivy Kalungi, Joy Labinjo, Sahara Longe, Nengi Omuku, Elena Njoabuzia Onwochei-Garcia, Tschabalala Self and Shaqúelle Whyte.
Together, these works weave a resonant tapestry that celebrates shared heritage, reimagines belonging, and situates contemporary Black art within an ever-evolving continuum.
