Exploring “Fossile fluides” by Anna Binta Diallo: My Journey of Reflection and Connection
I do not often visit downtown Montreal. And since I was in that neck of the woods yesterday, I decided to pass by the MAC to see and experience for myself “Fossile fluides”, the captivating mural by Anna Binta Diallo that was created specifically for that particular space. Seeing it IRL left a profound impact on me, prompting reflections on identity, family, culture, and even the linkage to nature.
What struck me most about “Fossile fluides” was its ability to evoke a sense of personal connection and universality. As I gazed upon the collage of a woman holding a child, I couldn’t help but see a reflection of myself and my two-year-old son. The striking usage of yellow chosen in the piece reminded me of the warmth of the sun shining down on us, enveloping us in its embrace.
Another captivating element of the mural for me was the prominent figure of a woman dressed in blue at its center. The abundance of blue tones in the collage brought to mind Yemayá, a revered deity in Yoruba culture associated with the sea and motherhood. As a daughter of Haitian immigrants, I automatically geared towards that layered cultural reference and thought it brought depth and symbolism to the artwork. It left me wondering if other people with Yoruba heritage thought of the same thing while strolling across the mural.
What got to me was how the mural delved into future themes. Those portraits of women and children made me think about hope, resilience, and how traditions are carried on from one generation to the next. And let’s talk about those natural elements and bold colours used throughout the artwork! It highlighted the bond between us humans and our environment, making me think about our role as stewards of nature.
“Fossile fluides” really felt like a true testament that the power of art has on evoking emotions, prompting introspection, and fostering connections. As I understand that its showing cycle is coming to an end, I’m a bit saddened that this fascinating mural won't be available to the public beyond March 31. I am reminded of the transformative potential of art in our lives and the importance of celebrating and preserving diverse cultural narratives within Quebec spaces.
This article is my humble tribute to the talent and vision of Anna Binta Diallo and a call to action for continued support and appreciation of Black Canadian artistry in public spaces. Let us embrace art as a vehicle for dialogue, understanding, and collective growth.
