As you go up the stairs to the second floor of Dakar Town Hall, a symbolic atmosphere has welcomed visitors since November 8. The ‘Ruines’ exhibition reveals striking works, taking a critical look at the past and future of the Senegalese capital. The police presence at the entrance underlines the inestimable value of this protected art.
The fascinating architectural mix of modern and historic is eye-catching, with photographs and art objects contrasting powerfully with the rapid urbanization of Dakar. “A tribute to endangered spaces,” explains Marco Lena, executive director of the ASM Fund, keen to safeguard the city’s identity under the pressure of modernism.
Among the jewels on display, the town hall’s guestbook preserves the striking signatures of General de Gaulle and other historical figures, palpable testimonies of a precious collective memory. Lena insists: these are not simple vestiges, but living fragments that must absolutely be preserved for tomorrow.
Touchingly realistic, the works on display raise questions about ecological and social changes, pushing each visitor to reflect on urban metamorphoses. Lena highlights the uniformity brought by globalization, regretting the gradual disappearance of traditions in neighborhoods.
The central theme ‘Ruins’ requires us not to ignore certain iconic places such as the train station or the airport, already on the verge of oblivion. The exhibition serves as a warning: to destroy history is to risk cultural erasure. Throughout the rooms, beyond the pieces of art, visitors truly connect with the living essence of Dakar, a heritage that resists time.
Senegal
