Bësaakkò Biá Rihóle’s Exhibit Honors Bubi Women
Why this is here: The artist utilized richly colored African textiles as a base for his paintings, reflecting a desire to reconnect with the African continent and acknowledge the cultural ties of Bioko Island.
An exhibition in Madrid explores the central role of women in the Bubi people through paintings on African textiles. The show, “Mujer bubi en tejido africano” by artist Bësaakkò Biá Rihóle, features paintings, illustrations, and textile art. It draws inspiration from the traditions of the Bubi, one of the oldest Bantu peoples of Central Africa.
The exhibition focuses on women as symbols of continuity and memory within Bubi culture. The artworks depict women as guardians of vital principles like fertility and community protection. Each piece is named after symbolic figures or functions within the Bubi culture, representing archetypes rather than specific portraits.
Rihóle states he aims to tell the story of the Bubi people through his work. He chose African textiles as a canvas to reconnect with the continent, recognizing Bioko Island’s cultural connection to Africa despite its isolation. The exhibit will be on display until May 24th.