Images, textures, and freedom: An exhibition by Artists’ Safe Haven resident Abecor

Justice & Peace welcomes you to the exhibition “Images, textures, and freedom”.

The exhibition marks the premiere of Abecor’s artworks in the Netherlands as part of his Artists’ Safe Haven residency. It exhibits a combination of sculptures and cartoons that highlight Abecor’s perspective on pressing social and political issues through humour and satire, in both images and textures. The exhibition will be displayed at The Grey Space in the Middle in The Hague from 14 until 19 October, while the official opening will be held on 16 October.

When & where

14 – 19 October 2024, from 16:00 – 20:00 (weekdays) & 12:00 – 16:00 (Saturday)

The Grey Space in the Middle, The Hague

“Images, textures, and freedom” Exhibition

During his residency, Abecor worked in the studio of local artist, Hetty Looman, where he developed a series of ceramic and bronze sculptures that reflect upon the connection between verbal and visual communication. In the exhibition “Images, textures, and freedom”, these works are shown in dialogue with a selection of the many cartoons that Abecor made over the last nineteen years as a response to the current struggle for justice and social equality in Bolivia.

Bolivia has long been dealing with multiple human rights issues including governmental interference in the judicial system, corruption, breaches of freedom of expression, and attacks on journalists, while in recent years, there has been an increasing rise in harassment and repression.[1] Within this context, Abecor’s artworks work as a form of protest, denunciation and peaceful awareness-raising, as well as an important contribution to freedom of expression.

Approaching artistic practice as a tool for social transformation, Abecor aims to invite the audience to reflect on the importance of freedom of press and freedom of speech, and demonstrate the importance of cartoons and sculptures as a means of communication and empowerment. Humour and satire have a significant role in his work, making difficult topics more approachable by allowing for a broader emotional experience, critique, and connection.

Despite being at risk, Abecor has not stopped advocating against silence and corruption. After his residency in The Hague ends, Abecor will have fulfilled his dream of showing his work in Europe and developing himself as a bronze sculptor.