Co-funded by the European Commission under the Creative Europe Programme, MANIFEST: New artistic perspectives on memories of the transatlantic trade of enslaved people aims to contribute to and enhance the re-imagination of Europe’s collective memory of the transatlantic trade of enslaved people.
The Doors, On a Slamé sur la Lune 1. Courtesy of the artist and MANIFEST.
The event represents the final step of a European project supported by five partners from Belgium, Denmark, Hungary, France, and Portugal. Initiated in 2022, this journey will culminate in the presentation of thirteen works in Nantes at L’Atelier, located at Rue Châteaubriand, from September 19th to October 6th, 2024. This exhibition aims to offer a modern and innovative perspective on the history and legacies of the transatlantic trade of enslaved people, placing art at the heart of evoking memories and legacies. The use of new techniques – augmented reality, virtual reality, podcasts, videos, and work on sound and images – is intended to provide visitors with a complete and immersive experience, enhancing their understanding and engagement with the subject. By combining these innovative forms of dissemination with the history of the transatlantic trade, the project’s contributors aim to make artistic creation accessible to the widest possible audience. The exhibition connects the different European memories of the transatlantic trade, using, among other things, original life stories.
MANIFEST aims to highlight the shared legacies of European countries and their unique aspects. By providing keys to understanding this subject, the objective is to deconstruct certain preconceived notions and encourage action against the ever-growing rise of racism and discrimination.
The MANIFEST exhibition required meticulous preparation involving twenty-two artists and the five institutions participating in the project. The thirteen works presented aim to address all audiences. Therefore, numerous events accompany its launch, such as workshops, guided tours, artistic performances, round tables, and conferences.
The exhibition will be on view from the 19th of September until the 6th of October, 2024. For more information, please visit MANIFEST.
