Quote by El Anatsui: “Transformation is key. To change the meaning of an object.”

This quote highlights the power of art to alter perception and imbue new significance into ordinary items. It suggests that by transforming materials, artists can challenge preconceived notions, giving new life and purpose to discarded objects and inviting viewers to reconsider their inherent value and symbolism, revealing deeper truths.

Anatsui's practice involves transforming thousands of discarded aluminum bottle caps into shimmering, monumental sculptures. This statement encapsulates his approach to art during the mid-2000s, a period when his works began receiving widespread critical acclaim for their innovative use of found objects and their profound cultural commentary.

Ghanaian sculptor and installation artist considered one of the most important visual artists of the contemporary era. Based in Nigeria for most of his career, he is famous for his large-scale tapestry-like works constructed from found metal and bottle caps. His work has been exhibited at the Venice Biennale and in major museums worldwide.