Vigo presents historic works on paper by Ibrahim El-Salahi with a specific focus on a particularly fertile period of work from 1976–77 following his release from jail, an incredibly influential experience and marker in terms of the future direction of his artistic output. 1977 was a creative moment, full of the joy at regaining his freedom after being wrongly accused. It was also an end of an era and the start of a new period, marking the last time he lived in Sudan full time.
The presentation will include an exquisite black and white work Untitled started in 1977 and finished in the 1980s. In addition we have a selection of the original illustrations from Maryoud (Bandarshah) by Tayeb Salih. These are exquisite works showcasing a pen and ink technique pioneered by El-Salahi.
Concurrently Salahi’s famous Prison Diaries, which were also completed just after his release from detention, will be featured in a major solo show and publication at the Sharjah Art Foundation.
In addition to this we will show a selection of works on paper and canvas from the 1950s to the 1990s, most of which have only recently been documented. There will also be a group of works from 1957 including an incredibly rare portrait on panel, accompanied by two vibrant calligraphic works from the same year and a very important Black and White work from his time in Qatar Qatar-London (1986-94) No. 23, 1994.
The majority of these works were neither available nor fully documented until now.
