Binta Diaw

Artist, Milan

«Being part of a city, nation or community involves taking responsibility. I aim to take responsibility through my art».

Tell us about the moment in your life when you first noticed that you’re one who sees the world through the eyes of an artist?

I don't think there was a first moment. Since I was a child I have always held a pencil or a marker in my hand to draw what I had around me. This way of expressing myself has always been defined over the years until I discovered sculpture.

Tell us about how social reality has influenced your work?

My work tells the realities that I have lived and the realities of minorities not considered by the social, cultural and political context in which I was born and raised. Being part of a city, nation or community involves taking responsibility. I try to take responsibility also through my artistic practice.

What would you say to your 13 year old self?

I would say "believe in people who believe in you". My art teachers were the ones who pushed me to follow my passion.

What changes do you hope to see in your sector in Italy in the next 5-10 years?

I hope to see much more socially  aware, passionate and non-superficial artists. I hope to see black Italian artists being part of large art collections in museums, private galleries, etc. I hope to see more and more engaged culture workers.