Whitechapel Gallery presents a rare archival exhibition of the work of pioneering artist and educator Senga Nengudi (b.1943, Chicago, USA). Featuring photographic works, archival materials and films of key performance pieces, the exhibition offers audiences unique insights into Nengudi’s work and practice.
Born in Chicago, and raised in Los Angeles, Nengudi was a key figure in the avant-garde Black art scenes both in Los Angeles and New York during the 1960s and 1970s that were characterised by their radical experimentation, collective practices and social commentary. Nengudi’s influential and groundbreaking works sit at the intersection of sculpture, choreography and performance and draw on a range of African, Asian and Native American art forms.
The presentation focuses on a selection of Nengudi’s most iconic works made between 1972 and 1982 – a pivotal moment in her artistic development. During this period, Nengudi refined both her approach and creative forms, building on a background in dance and art. She was also influenced by avant-garde collectives and practices including Fluxus, the Gutai group, Yoruba mythology, Japanese Noh theatre and jazz improvisation. Her distinctive and evocative sculptural forms were assembled from a variety of found objects and materials such as hosiery, sand, rocks, seed pods, masking tape and paper, and designed to be animated by spontaneous or choreographed interactions, creating powerful participatory works.
