SOMETHING art space has openend with the support of Goethe-Institut Côte d’Ivoire the first solo show in Africa by world-renowned artist Carsten Höller in Abidjan.
Curated by Mo Laudi, a key figure in dialogues between contemporary art and music, the exhibition brings together four of Höller’s iconic works: Fara Fara (2014), Alone (2011), Flicker Films (2005), and The Forest (2002).
THE EXHIBITION
Carsten Höller, celebrated for his exploration of the boundaries between art, science, and human perception, invites audiences to embark on a multisensory experience at SOMETHING art space:
Fara Fara: A two-channel video installation delving into the vibrant musical scene of Kinshasa. This masterpiece explores the rivalry between two icons of Congolese music, Werrason and Koffi Olomidé, while celebrating the energy and cultural power of Congolese music.
Alone: Filmed with a fixed camera, twins sitting in two carousels move closer and then further apart.
Flicker Films: Three kinetic and luminous three channel works that challenge the limits of perception, creating hypnotic plays of light and shadow.
The Forest: An installation recreating an indoor forest, transporting viewers to an environment that is both real and imagined, prompting reflection on the interplay between nature and constructed spaces.
Carsten Höller: Fara Fara – 2nd March 2025 SOMETHING art space, 1035 Rue Booker Washington, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Curator: Mo Laudi
About
Born in Belgium to German parents and based in Stockholm and Biriwa (Ghana), Carsten Höller is one of the most influential contemporary artists today. He creates what he calls Influential Environments, intended to create particular states of mind, like excitement and alteration, doubt and confusion, joy and fear. Höller’s work has been showcased in prestigious institutions such as Tate Modern (London), the New Museum (New York), Hamburger Bahnhof (Berlin) and Palazzo Strozzi (Florence). Notably, Fara Fara featured in the main exhibition of the 56th Venice Biennale, curated by Okwui Enwezor.
Located in Abidjan’s historic district, SOMETHING art space is a non-profit art centre dedicated to video art, digital art, and critical thought. Founded and directed by Anna-Alix Koffi, the space highlights artists from Africa and its diaspora, as well as those whose work is deeply connected to Africa. Through exhibitions, residencies, and conversations, SOMETHING art space bridges local and international art scenes, celebrating the richness and diversity of African perspectives. Since its opening in 2022, the centre has collaborated with renowned figures such as Wolfgang Tillmans, Simon Njami, Odile Burluraux, and institutions like the MAM Paris, SAVVY Contemporary, and Bonaventure Soh Bejeng Ndikung.
