Lenape series ∀4
Temporary installation for solo exhibition « Space Parts » at Miyako Yoshinaga Gallery | december 17th 2015 – February 6th 2016
Acrylic and aluminum on wall, beam and post, various dimensions, 2016
During my first visit in New-York City, I discovered the story of Lenape tribe. Its name means “the pure men”. Actual New-York place names are borrowed from their culture such as Manhattan: “Island of many hills”. I collected into my notebook drawings of their everyday life objects, clothes or wallets. On these were engraved or drawn identity symbols of this nowadays disappeared tribe, betrayed by the Dutch who have decimated its population to steal its land.
Two years after this discovery, I had the opportunity to invest a place on the ancient land of Lenape tribe. By remaining on site all day, I noticed that the natural morning light penetrates into the room, licking blunt angles of a wooden post. This post recalls the story of the building where white walls were recently added to create an exhibition space. This same post is the crossing point of the light, between an area which must be artificially illuminated and a space which benefits to a relation with the outside world. This post is also supporting the building that would not exist without it. It is on this post, at the intersection of time and light, I chose to paint a symbol of the Lenape tribe.