Video, sound, 17:25 min., Städtische Sammlung Erlangen
The performance artist, choreographer and dancer Taiwo Jacob Ojudun addresses social issues such as racism, climate change and post-colonial identity in his works. In his multidisciplinary performances, which mostly take place in public spaces, he combines Nigerian traditions with contemporary developments. His video work What if deals with the Berlin Conference (1884-1885). There, the representatives of European states, the USA and the Ottoman Empire laid down criteria for the recognition of colonial possessions under international law, thereby initiating the ruthless conquest and exploitation of Africa.
What if reverses the balance of power of that time: Not Africa, but Europe is divided up and reorganized. Ojudun looks at the conference from a decidedly African perspective and thus deals with positions of power and dependency.
