ABOUT REWRITING HISTORY
Fabiola Jean-Louis’ work delves into the intricate connections between history, memory, and identity. Through her masterful use of paper, she creates a symbolic link between the present and a past where paper held more than mere monetary value—it had the power to decide the fate and freedom of individuals. From her meticulously crafted paper gowns to her evocative photographs, Jean-Louis guides us on a temporal journey, inviting us to confront the delicate yet crucial weight of history.
In her painterly photographs, female figures gaze directly from their frames, enveloped in the opulence of Baroque luxury, seemingly adorned in rich silks and taffeta. Yet, subtly interwoven into the noble backdrops are the spectral presences of Black men and women from history, a reminder of the violence and oppression that continues to reverberate today. The women in Jean-Louis’ portraits demand our attention, urging us to recognize the complex heritage they embody, alongside their powerful presence in contemporary society.