CLAES GABRIEL
 
Inspired by Degas and infused with the essence of African royalty, this sculpture stands as a testament to the beauty and strength of Black womanhood. The found objects—table legs, raffia, and upholstery nails—are cleverly incorporated to celebrate African culture, turning the dancer into a regal figure of royalty, modernity and tradition. Her posture is one of grace and strength, embodying the spirit of a king’s daughter, draped in a skirt made of raffia and adorned with thrifted table legs shaped like bear claws. It’s a dance of contrasts, where simplicity meets grandeur, and the past and present converge. The artist blends modern art with African influences, using bold shapes and textured surfaces to tell a story of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride. This piece is not just a sculpture; but a bold statement on the enduring legacy of African art in contemporary culture. It’s a celebration of lineage, strength, and beauty.