CARIBBEAN ART GOES BEYOND REPRESENTATION

Central to the project is a focus on the body as a medium of expression and resistance. The artists redefine traditional art-making processes by incorporating audience participation and exploring the relationship between space, material, and media. Through performances, installations, and video art, the exhibition highlights the dynamic contributions of Caribbean creatives to the avant-garde art scene.

The live performance series debuted in fall 2024 with works by Jeannette Ehlers and Tirzo Martha. Ehlers’ We’re Magic. We’re Real #3 (These Walls) explores themes of identity and heritage through the symbolic use of hair, an important marker within the African diaspora. Her durational performance connects the performers to PAMM’s terrace with long cornrows, creating a poetic reflection on the ties between culture, nature, and history. Similarly, Tirzo Martha’s "Act of Valor" engages participants in a series of workshops, culminating in a collective performance that addresses contemporary global issues such as climate change, displacement, and systemic racism.

Beyond Representation seeks to dismantle oppressive colonial ideologies while fostering narratives of healing, freedom, and solidarity. Each artist’s work resonates with a deep sense of history and community, bridging the past and present. For example, Ehlers’ pieces often incorporate decolonial themes, emphasizing empowerment and resilience within the African diaspora. Her collaborative projects, including the "I Am Queen Mary" monument, underscore her dedication to honoring the legacy of resistance.

Meanwhile, Tirzo Martha’s multifaceted practice combines sculpture, video, and performance with a strong social engagement component. His works often involve the audience, creating an interactive and transformative experience. Martha’s establishment of the Instituto Buena Bista in Curaçao highlights his commitment to fostering contemporary art and education in the Caribbean.

The Caribbean Cultural Institute at PAMM serves as a vital platform for promoting and supporting the artistic production of the Caribbean and its diasporas. Through exhibitions, fellowships, and public programs, CCI amplifies the voices of Caribbean artists and fosters a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural diversity. By situating "Beyond Representation" within this framework, PAMM underscores its role as a cultural bridge between the Americas and the Caribbean.

Beyond Representation also emphasizes the importance of sustainability and tradition in contemporary art. Many of the featured works incorporate natural fibers, organic dyes, and other sustainable materials, drawing attention to the enduring relevance of ancestral techniques. This integration of the traditional and the modern challenges viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of past and present.