Faculty of Art

Cross-Disciplinary Art: Life Studies

Pixel Heller

It Takes Two (Jumbies at the Art Fair)

Xica Dieffenthaller-Lee Poy and I performed at the opening night of Artist Project, an art fair with over 250 artists. At the heart of our performance was a deeper narrative—one that invited viewers to question the essence of artistic expression. Moko Jumbie culture, often overlooked as mere spectacle or dance, served as a potent symbol of resilience and tradition. In embodying these ancestral spirits, we served as vessels who carried forth their stories and culture by bringing them to life.Our presence in such a prestigious art event disrupted expectations and sparked conversations about the broader significance of art beyond its visual aesthetics. We sought to ignite a dialogue about cultural representation, challenging viewers to confront their preconceptions and embrace the multifaceted nature of artistic expression. Through our performance, we not only honoured the legacy of our ancestors but also underscored the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the art world. By bringing Moko Jumbie culture to the forefront of such a prominent platform, we affirmed its rightful place within the artistic community and celebrated its enduring impact on Caribbean heritage.Photographed by Pierro Mathiabo

“Heavily contrasting my daily life, when I’m on the stilts I become more confident and enjoy taking up space and being seen.”