Advertising has long conveyed xenophobic stereotypes. With “Y’a pas bon les clichés”, the Franco-Algerian artist and graphic designer Ali Guessoum diverts the most famous codes of advertisements, and of popular culture in general, to better thwart racist prejudices. This impactful exhibition is to be discovered, until July 29, at Art is publicthe gallery of the association Uni’Sonsin Montpellier (Hérault).
A brand of cigarettes becomes “Malbaré”, and warns those who would be tempted by the dark side that “racism kills”. Or an inescapable word game becomes “Le Scabreux”, when you line up the amalgams on the board. Ali Guessoum also demonstrates the cultural contribution of immigration. And denounces the failings of politics.
“The goal is to dismantle racist clichés, to analyze the way in which they are constructed, and how they have evolved, confides Malika Aboubeker, mediator at L’art est public. And to make us react, through a humor sometimes black, sometimes yellow, and to make us aware of the way in which unconsciously, we can continue to feed these clichés. A necessary exposure: in 2022, according to the Ministry of the Interior, crimes or offenses of a racist, xenophobic or anti-religious nature increased by 5% compared to 2021.
Free admission, until July 29 at L’art est public, in Les Hauts de Massane. All of the information here. It is possible to book guided tours of the exhibition.