Sharjah Biennial 16

Abstract This review of the Sharjah Biennial 16 focuses on the works of African diaspora artists within the exhibition. The biennial theme “to carry” explores themes of survival, cultural continuity, and global politics. African artists and several of their commissioned works are highlighted. Ndidi Dike's installations use photography and objects to examine trade, slavery, and resource extraction. Julianknxx's film blends poetry, performance, and film to explore diasporic narratives and oral traditions. Kaloki Nyamai's large-scale paintings incorporate newspapers and documents, reflecting on Kenyan culture and history. Rita Mawuena Benissan's mixed-media installation uncovers Ghanaian history and traditions through photographs, textiles, and film. Despite a limited presence, the African diaspora artists at the biennial presented compelling and agency-driven works that challenge Western perspectives and offer rich, layered experiences.