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Hakanto Contemporary unveils new 2,000 square meter venue in september

The newvenue will have modular spaces that will house exhibition rooms, a bookstore, workshops and a library.

Por: Alejandro Carrillo
Hakanto Contemporary / Photo via courtesy
Hakanto Contemporary / Photo via courtesy

Art enthusiasts in Madagascar have something to look forward to as  Hakanto Contemporary, the non-profit art space based in Antananarivo, prepares for the grand opening of its new 2,000 square meter venue on September 15, 2024.

 

Founded in 2020 by artist Joël Andrianomearisoa and entrepreneur Hasnaine Yavarhoussen, Hakanto Contemporary was born with the mission to support and showcase contemporary Malagasy art in a country with a nascent art infrastructure. Andrianomearisoa, a renowned artist whose work has been exhibited internationally, will be responsible for the artistic direction and design of the new space.

Hakanto Contemporary / Photo via courtesy
Hakanto Contemporary / Photo via courtesy

The new venue will feature modular spaces that will house exhibition halls, a bookstore, workshops, and a library. Located in the developing neighborhood of Ankadimbahoaka, it will offer a thematic program by season, starting with “Family Stories”. This inaugural exhibition will feature works by Malagasy artists Jessy Razafimandimby, Aude Onivola Rajaona, and Alexandre Gourçon.

 

More than art

The program will also include collaborations with international artists and showcase works from the Hasnaine Yavarhoussen collection. Having attracted around 50,000 visitors in four years, with a constantly growing young audience, Hakanto Contemporary plans to continue fostering local and international artistic dialogue.

 

Hakanto Contemporary / Photo via courtesy
Hakanto Contemporary / Photo via courtesy

Future seasons will explore themes such as “New Love” and offer a retrospective of photographer Pierrot Men. The space will host rotating exhibitions and events, focusing on both emerging and established artists. The first exhibition will run until March 16, 2025.

 

Space

Hakanto Contemporary goes beyond being a mere exhibition space. The center offers a dynamic program of events and workshops that seek to engage the local community and foster creative exchange. Among its initiatives are:

 

  • Workshops and talks: Opportunities for artists and the general public to learn and explore different artistic techniques.

  • Artist residencies: Programs that provide artists with the opportunity to create and develop their work in an inspiring environment.

  • Special events: Film screenings, concerts, and performances that enrich the local cultural scene.

Hakanto Contemporary / Photo via courtesy
Hakanto Contemporary / Photo via courtesy

Hakanto Contemporary has become a beacon of creativity in Madagascar, playing a pivotal role in the development of contemporary art in the country. The center provides a platform for local artists to showcase their work and connect with a global audience, while promoting cultural exchange and art appreciation within the community.

 

About Andrianomearisoa

Joël Andrianomearisoa is a Malagasy artist born in Antananarivo in 1977. He lives and works between Paris, his hometown, and Magnat-l’Étrange.

 

His works are characterized by the use of textiles, paper, sometimes wood, minerals, or unexpected objects (mirrors, perfumes, etc.). Andrianomearisoa works with these materials intuitively, creating abstract compositions that evoke emotions and memories.

Joël Andrianomearisoa / Photo via Courtesy
Joël Andrianomearisoa / Photo via Courtesy

The artist draws inspiration from his Malagasy heritage and personal experiences to explore themes such as identity, memory, and the passage of time. His works are often presented in large-scale installations that envelop the viewer in a sensory environment.

 

We hope you enjoyed this article about Hakanto Contemporary, If you did, please share it with others. You might also be interested in reading our article about Bowmore and Aston Martin, or browsing other reviews in our Luster English section.

 

 

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