Haoua Habré is a visual artist who in her artistic research addresses the subject of identity through themes such as childhood, travel and memory. Growing up between Chad, Dakar and France, the subject of identity has always been present in her life, and the artist believes it is what makes us unique and distinguishes us from others.
Habré started her career as a painter and then transitioned to sculpture and installation where she began to focus on textiles. This medium, which can take on infinite forms and colors, is a living material which Habré views as a “double skin” or a cultural tribute that allows her to share stories through it.
The artist explains, “I want to be able to feel the texture and volume of the material I’m using. I need to create a bond, a physical connection, between me and my artwork.” In order to create this physical connection, Habré manipulates fabrics in different ways and formats such as twisting, weaving, sewing, tearing and cutting. Through this process she gives life to her work, and in return, it provides an opportunity for the viewers to wonder about their relationship with their identity. Her research is strongly influenced by sociological and philosophical works that deal with the essence of individuality and identity.
Past exhibitions include COCA project at Center of Contemporary Artist, Grottaglie, Italy (2020); DF Art Project at Pavillon 18, Parc Floral de Paris (2021); Prizma Art Prize, Rome, Italy (2021). She has exhibited at other venues including Anti Degree Show (Croydon, UK), Artroom London, Melia White House (London UK) and NSDM Fuse (Amsterdam Holland) among others. Her work was published in several magazines including the cover of Harper’s Bazaar Brasil in 2019.
Image: Haoua Habré, Black Butterflies, 2023.
Haoua Habre’s residency is made possible through AAI’s ongoing partnership with Residency Unlimited and with support from the CNAP.