In 2014, Argentinian artist Amalia Pica undertook a residency at Gashaka Gumti National Park in the rainforest of Nigeria. During her stay, she observed the lives of chimpanzees, particularly their methods of communicating and their use of tools. In 2017, she followed up with a stint at Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art in Colorado, exploring the concept of inter-species communication and working with leading primatologists.
please open hurry synthesises the results of her residencies into an exhibition, with her Institute of Modern Art showcase turning chimp communication — between themselves, and with other species — into art. Planet of the Apes and its many sequels and remakes, it isn't, as Pica takes a considered and creative look into her chosen field of interest.
Reflecting the two parts of her research, the exhibition displays in two parts. First, see her Nigerian-inspired efforts until January 14, and then come back after February 2 for the next chapter.
Image: Amalia Pica, Taller / Workshop, 2017. Tools made by chimpanzees out of forest wood to extract food such as honey or insects, felt pen, nails. Dimensions variable.