Patrick Wokmeni

Platform 102 presents photographs by Patrick Wokmeni. Wokmeni’s photographs are linked directly to his homeland of post-colonial/post-independent Cameroon. His photographs give a narrative to the social conditions afflicting his community while being compassionate in their treatment of his subjects, showing the humanity in each although at times in inhumane conditions. The selected photographs for Wokmeni's presentation at Platform 102 are from his 2009 series documenting Hip-Hop culture in his hometown Douala. They explore the lure of celebrity as a way out of oppressive situations and as avenues to presumed freedom. They also address ideas about Western culture and anti-colonial social standards. What is most evident in the series is the sense of pride the subjects carry with them. The public viewing for Patrick Wokmeni takes place on Sunday June 1, 2014 from 15h to 18h with refreshments and drinks. Private viewings begin June 4 through July 20, 2014 by appointment. Other programming will be announced over the course of presentation. Wokmeni grew up in New Bell, a busy neighbourhood in Douala where he studied under noted photographers Bruno Boudjelal, Bill Akwa Betote, Philippe Niorthe and Nicolas Eyidi. He is a HISK Laurent, Ghent (2013) and was a resident at MTN Foundation, Douala(2009). He has exhibited internationally at the Festival Belluard Bollwerk International, Fribourg (2014) Marrakech Biennale (2014); Lood 12, Wetteren (2013); BOZAR, Palais de Beaux-Arts, Brussels (2010); Savvy Contemporary, Berlin (2010); Dak’Art - Biennale de l’Art Africain Contemporain (2010); and Studio 41, Glasgow (2012). Platform 102 is a private curated social space and platform for emerging and mid-career contemporary artists as well as, a forum for new collectors, thinkers and art enthusiast. Platform 102 develops new ways to look at what is art and how to breakdown the stereotypes associated with viewing, collecting and experiencing art . Presentations and events play-off the domesticity of the space bringing new perceptions to work that cannot be encountered in a traditional setting. Artists presentations span various genes and programming is intimate and includes talks, performances and art related dinners organized to integrate the audience into discussions about the work being presented and issues within contemporary art. Platform 102 rue Antoine Dansaert 102 1000 Brussels, Belgium http://platform102.blogspot.be/