“Conspirators,” created by El Anatsui in 1997, is a prominent example of the Post-Minimalism and Junk Art movements. The artwork is an installation piece, measuring 61 x 142 cm.
The artwork is composed of various elements meticulously arranged to create a complex and layered visual experience. It consists of what appears to be wooden panels or pieces, assembled in a manner that creates a rhythmic and textured surface. The composition includes abstracted human faces rendered with simple yet expressive lines, interwoven with vertical and diagonal strips that may symbolize barriers or fragmentation. The diverse hues of browns, blues, and other colors bring depth and vibrancy to the piece. The intentional use of materials typically considered as “junk” redefines their aesthetic value, making a statement about transformation and the beauty found in the discarded. El Anatsui’s work challenges viewers to reconsider the inherent potential in overlooked materials, reflecting themes of resourcefulness and cultural history.
