Tiyani rikhotso biography channel

Artist Catalogue

Virtual Exhibition

Rest as the Practice of Freedom

This exhibition explores how rest, when embraced by Black women, can function as redress for generational lineages of fatigue.

Though simple, embracing rest challenges oppressive histories and current social, economic and cultural factors that hinder our ability to pause and enjoy moments of rejuvenation and ease. The title of the piece, Rest as the Practice of Freedom is inspired by bell hooks’ text Love as the Practice of Freedom (2006).

Tiyani rikhotso biography channel

Hooks’ writing is referenced as it is key in shaping my ideas on how rest frees our bodies from the strain of oppressive systems and gives us the energy to dream up and enact liberated futures.

In a central component of the exhibition, strips of my old bed sheets are woven together and take on the form of a grass mat.

I was drawn to the use of this object as it is a personal and cultural symbol of rest for me. My childhood memories are filled with image