Inspiration for the series Tr(addition): This series features African tribal people wearing items of pop culture, to open a dialog on two subjects. The first one being the overstated value that we attach to popular brands, and the subsequent need we develop to own them. When viewed in an African context this obsession seems mad. Those who live off the land value things because of their authentic purpose - a scarf will keep you warm regardless of whether it represents a high end brand or not. Likewise, they express creativity by adorning themselves with the items from nature because they are beautiful, not because of how much they cost. The items in the paintings may not stand out at first. The reason for this is the second subject -the adoption of modern culture and technology as it slowly creeps into every corner of the globe. Does it result in the loss of old traditions? Can one adopt modern conveniences without the attached society and culture? Can Africa merge the old and the new successfully?

VIEW TR(ADDITION) SERIES BY LAUREN REDMAN