Antonio Obá - Path | Oude Kerk, Amsterdam

Path is the first solo exhibition by Brazilian artist Antonio Obá in the Netherlands. For the occasion, Obá created this site-specific installation, consisting of mixed-media works including sculpture, painting and interactive sound, The works are located throughout the main church and side room spaces; inviting visitors through the high choir, under the organ and into the side rooms.

With this exhibition, Obá investigates the relationship between religion, power and social identity, whilst offering a new perspective on the history of the Oude Kerk. Through Path, Obá plays with the meaning of religious icons and rituals; reflecting on the fusion of cultural traditions as a result of, among other things, colonial history.

Central to Obá’s work is using the imagery of Afro-Brazilian traditions and religious icons to reflect on identity whilst creating awareness. Literal routes equally play a role in his work, such as the forced journey of enslaved people from Africa to South America, the Oude Kerk’s own history connected to Brazil and the Transatlantic slave trade, as well as Obá’s own flight to Europe due to threats in Brazil. All these roads come together in the installation Path at the Oude Kerk.