Ugandan Artist's Multifaceted Exhibition Addresses Identity, Sexuality, and Human Rights

Courtesy of STEPHEN FRIEDMAN GALLERY

At Frieze London's Booth B03, located in The Regents Park, London NW1 4NR, the Stephen Friedman Gallery is set to unveil a compelling solo presentation by Ugandan artist Leila Babirye. The exhibition is a profound exploration of her multidisciplinary practice, where she molds everyday materials into artworks that delve into the realms of identity, sexuality, and human rights. Babirye's artistry comes alive through a series of dynamic hand-carved and ceramic sculptures of varying scales, complemented by new works on paper. 

▲ LEILAH BABIRYE, Gunsinze aliwa Bitono, 2023, Wood, wax, acrylic, aluminum, bolts, nuts, washers, nails, bicycle tyre inner tubes, metal bicycle parts, welded metal and found objects, 257 x 150 x 105cm (101 1/8 x 59 x 41 3/8in) (BABI 120), Courtesy of STEPHEN FRIEDMAN GALLERY
Titled 'Gyagenda,' her first bronze sculpture, showcased at Frieze Sculpture 2023, holds deeper symbolism. The title, a Luganda idiom, embodies the journey of young individuals seeking to create their chosen families in the broader world. Having moved to New York from her native Uganda in 2015, Babirye's experience as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, seeking asylum in 2018, profoundly influences not just her art but also her extensive activism in supporting LGBTQ+ and human rights on a global scale.

▲ LEILAH BABIRYE, Abambowa (Royal Guard Who Protects the King), 2022, Glazed ceramic, Twelve parts, each approx.: 20.3 x 5.1 x 5.1cm (8 x 2 x 2in) (BABI 99), Courtesy of STEPHEN FRIEDMAN GALLERY
The VIP Preview, by invitation only, will be held from October 11 to 12, 11am - 7pm, followed by Public Days from October 13 to 14, 11am - 7pm, and October 15, 11am - 6pm.

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