WILLEMSTAD - Landhuis Bloemhof has invited local artists to respond to the apologies issued by the Dutch State for its role in the Dutch colonial slavery history.
The exhibition Sorry,... showcases the work of various artists reflecting on the theme. This week, the spotlight is on the works of artists Ailsa Anastatia, Rose Ann Ignacio, and Paul Senders.
Ailsa Anastatia has created five separate artworks that, according to Bloemhof, come together to form a compelling whole. Her pieces emphasize the power of punctuation marks, responding to Prime Minister Rutte's statement that the apologies "don't put a period on history but a comma."
Through mixed media collages, Anastatia explores the significance of punctuation marks in this context. Materials such as gold, sugar, and cotton are used as references to the colonial past. Her work "Redefining the Narrative" invites the viewer to reflect more deeply on the complexity of slavery history.
Paul Senders' multimedia artwork, titled "Beyond Sorry: Together," is an installation made of wood and metal depicting people of diverse ethnicities carrying the world together.
Senders underscores the importance of the Dutch apologies while also emphasizing that the conversation should continue after the apologies. He calls for understanding and unity to move forward together.
Rochelle Monte has created the mixed media painting "Free at Last" specifically for this exhibition, focusing on the power of forgiveness. Monte emphasizes that forgiveness can be liberating, creating space for healing and growth.
"Sorry on Stage" Event
In addition to the exhibition, events are also planned. On August 11th, the event "Sorry on Stage" will take place at Landhuis Bloemhof from 7:00 to 9:30 PM. Artists from various disciplines such as dance, theater, literature, music, and poetry will share their interpretations.