The Sharjah Art Foundation is excited to unveil A Shadow of a Shadow, the first major solo exhibition of renowned South African artist William Kentridge in the Middle East. Running from 28 September to 8 December 2024, this comprehensive survey showcases 17 of Kentridge’s performance projects, spanning from the late 1980s to the present. The exhibition, curated by Hoor Al Qasimi and Tarek Abou El Fetouh, highlights Kentridge’s interdisciplinary approach, blending visual art, theatre, and film to offer profound critiques on colonialism, power structures, and societal issues.
At the heart of the exhibition are Kentridge’s captivating works, including his famed interpretation of Alfred Jarry’s King Ubu, a satirical play that metaphorically explores the rise of authoritarianism and apartheid in South Africa, and The Head and the Load (2018), which focuses on Africa’s role in World War I. Visitors will also encounter various elements integral to Kentridge’s performances, such as puppets, stage backdrops, drawings, and props, many of which are inspired by his collaborations with the Handspring Puppet Company in Cape Town.
The exhibition’s title, A Shadow of a Shadow, is derived from a 13th-century play by Muhammad Ibn Daniyal, reflecting Kentridge’s fascination with puppet theatre and shadow plays. This theme connects with the artist’s use of absurdist satire to dissect authoritarianism, a recurring motif throughout his career.
Known for his distinctive charcoal animations, Kentridge has garnered international acclaim for his unique fusion of drawing and film, addressing the complex social, political, and economic landscapes of South Africa. His work has been exhibited at prestigious institutions such as MoMA in New York and the Louvre in Paris.
Kentridge’s engagement with theatre and opera further enriches his practice, with notable productions including his interpretation of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. His multifaceted approach ensures that A Shadow of a Shadow not only showcases his artistic prowess but also offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition and its entanglement with historical and contemporary power dynamics.
This landmark exhibition cements Kentridge’s position as one of the most significant artists of our time, offering Emirati audiences a rare opportunity to experience the depth of his performance work.
