Stadium by Thenjiwe Niki Nkosi at STEVENSON gallery in Amsterdam

December 29, 2023 Razvan Chiorean

Exploring the intricate power dynamics within a singular public moment, Thenjiwe Niki Nkosi presents a collection of interconnected paintings that unfold diverse narrative threads at STEVENSON gallery in Amsterdam. This exhibition serves as a captivating experiment in synchronized storytelling, capturing seven distinct perspectives of a pivotal split-second in a track-and-field event, each pulsating with the climactic energy of athletes nearing the finish line.

Artists often use the athlete's body to symbolize the pinnacle of human perfection, showcasing their own skill in capturing muscle tension and willpower. The scrutiny on athletes allows for critique and assessment, turning the idealized figure into an imperfect subject. Nkosi shifts focus from individual athletes to the collective experience of performance and team dynamics.

Her paintings emphasize the refuge found in community, exploring the power relations within the dynamics of competition. Nkosi's work reveals that true power lies in the evaluators and judges, depicted in her artworks as a constant presence, emphasizing their influence over athletes' lives. The Stadium paintings originated from her 2022 short film, The Same Track, created for a public art project during the Commonwealth Games.

The film juxtaposes archival footage of Games with images of colonial activities, exposing how the Games perpetuate extractive relations through symbolic repetition. In Nkosi's seven paintings, she explores the drama of a track and field moment, showcasing diverse perspectives. The scenes capture the anticipation and behind-the-scenes moments, revealing the constructed order and the hidden world beyond the stadium.

The smallest canvas, depicting runners, emphasizes that athletes, though central to the drama, aren't the true repositories of power. The overlap of limbs and mischievous details expose the façade of competition, challenging the perceived comfort and triumph of the athletes.