
Anawana Haloba. I Want to Tell You Something
The Zambian-Norwegian artist creates multi-media installations that appeal to all the senses, including hearing and taste. But she also challenges audiences to think. Many of her works address current discussions about Africa’s colonial legacy.
The exhibition presents a varied selection of works from her artistic practice. In addition, she has created a new work—her very own opera— a video insallation with singing sculptures, that draws on rich traditions of folk opera in Zambia.
On four large split screens, we see Zambian chiyabilo performers juxtaposed with singers based in Oslo. The sculptures in the room, which chant the artist’s own libretto, are made from traditional instruments and tools used in ceremonial rituals as well as food preparation. The work challenges and transcends conventional Western notions of classical Italian opera.