Out of Context

Out of Context has closed early, at the request of Yellowzine, the exhibition’s curators. They have decided to close the exhibition early in solidarity with a protest organised by Gaza Biennale in March 2025, which was unrelated to the Out of Context exhibition.

The Horniman has been in conversation with Yellowzine about their withdrawal and their concerns and we want to thank them for their openness. We entirely respect their decision to withdraw.

We apologise for any inconvenience this causes for visitors who planned to see the exhibition.

Inspired by the Benin Bronzes, which were looted and displayed in Western museums such as the Horniman, it grapples with profound questions.

Can we, in the West, ever truly appreciate cultural artefacts out of their original context? How do we interpret creations from cultures different to our own? Do we, as spectators, have the right to decide what constitutes ‘art’?

Using illustration, photography and AI, Out of Context asks viewers to engage with the tension between art and anthropology.

Curated by Yellowzine, this exhibition features works by West African artists Tamibé Bourdanné, Osaze Amadasun and Oreoluwa Ayoade.

Yellowzine

Yellowzine is a platform and print publication that celebrates and amplifies the work of Black, Asian, and ethnic minority artists.

Founded in 2017 by siblings Aisha and Oreoluwa Ayoade, Yellowzine began as a magazine aimed at addressing the underrepresentation of minority creatives in the art world.

Yellowzine has become a vital space for challenging industry norms and highlighting the cultural contributions of ethnic minority artists.

Lead image: Image from A Spirited Journey by Tamibé Bourdanné, © Tamibé Bourdanné