Human Spring 11, 2023
Barthélémy Toguo, born in 1967, M’Balmayo, Cameroon. He lives and works in Paris and Bandjoun.
Barthélémy Toguo's artistic practice encompasses painting, sculpture, photography, performance and installation. Toguo is recognized for his ability to transcend cultural boundaries and provoke profound reflection on issues such as migration, identity and globalization.
One of the defining characteristics of Toguo's work is his bold use of color and texture. His vibrant canvases often explore the complex nuances of human experience, highlighting the conflicts and synergies between individuals and their environment. In parallel, his innovative installations and performances often incorporate organic elements, creating immersive spaces that invite the viewer to interact with art in new and provocative ways.
In addition to his commitment to artistic exploration, Barthélémy Toguo is also a committed cultural activist. He founded Bandjoun Station in Cameroon, a contemporary art center that promotes local creativity and provides a platform for emerging artists. His work and commitment make a significant contribution to the global dialogue on contemporary art and the place of the artist in contemporary society.
Barthélémy Toguo is Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in France for his artistic commitment and creativity. His work has been exhibited at the Centre Pompidou, the Venice Biennale and the Palais de Tokyo, and is included in collections such as Jean Pigozzi's Collection d'art africain contemporain (CAAC), the Tate Modern, the Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris and the Fondation Louis Vuitton. In 2022, Barthélémy Toguo presented his work Le Pilier des migrants disparus under the Louvre pyramid. He is one of only a handful of living artists to have exhibited in this museum.