Performance & Persona, 1992-2007


HASSAN MUSA


About ‘Artafricanism’ and about Art, 1992 T


his excerpt, the artist’s translation, is from the brochure that accompanied Hassan Musa’s graphic ceremony, Cena Africana II/African Last Supper II, at the School of Oriental and African Studies, London, on 7 August 1992. It was published in Seven Stories about Modern Art in Africa (1995: p241).


What remains of an art work When ‘exhibited’? What remains of a work When explained? What remains of a work When achieved? What remains of art Once crossed one’s mind?


I am searching for a mark A living, mobile, breathing mark A mark which runs the risk of hazard And those of premeditation.


I am searching the way Out of the old, well-beaconed labyrinth Of the exhibition.


I think the traditional, ceremonial setting out of the art exhibition loses the sense of the art work, suggesting that the work of art is finally closed. In itself, the exhibition


Performance and Persona • Hassan Musa | 137


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