Januario Jano’s second solo exhibition at White Conduit Projects, Otherness: An Inventory of Desire (After the Sunset), explores his commitment to the twin themes of memory and identity. This exhibition features works created from fabrics sourced from Jano’s extensive library of textiles, gathered from various parts of the world, including his family home in Angola and kimono fabrics from Japan.
Jano explores the concept of ‘otherness’ from philosopher Emmanuel Levinas, emphasizing an ethical openness to understanding others. His textile inventory reflects the complexities of identity, highlighting themes of belonging and the effects of colonial legacies on culture. The exhibition “After the Sunset,” held in Japan, uses fading orange tones to symbolize transitions and invites reflection on time, change, and the continuous process of reshaping personal and cultural narratives. It underscores the necessity of being receptive to ‘the other.’
Jano is an Angolan interdisciplinary visual artist specialising in sculpture, video, photography, textile, sound installation, and performance. He holds a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts from Goldsmiths University and has exhibited globally, including in Spain, Portugal, Japan and the UK. Notable shows include the First Biennial of African Photography, 2023 São Paulo Biennale and solo exhibitions in Japan. Awarded the Art Laguna Prize and nominated for the Norval Sovereign African Art Prize, his work is part of prestigious collections, including the V&A Museum and private collections worldwide.
