‘RAG artists participate in Surinamese Months in Amsterdam’
Stadsherstel Amsterdam presents the Surinamese Months (Surinaamse Maanden) from June 3rd to July 31st in the Amstelkerk, featuring artists René Tosari and Sunil Puljhun. This is an annually organized charity event for Surinamese heritage, including an auction and a sales exhibition.
The theme this year is Baka Foto, focusing on the cultural and historical connections between Suriname and Amsterdam. The proceeds will benefit monuments in Paramaribo, such as the Maarschalkerweerd organ of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter and Paul, and Fort Nieuw Amsterdam (Commewijne).
The sales exhibition is a group show titled: Fotoprenki / City Views Paramaribo. René Tosari selected three works with themes related to nature, the environment, and agriculture, as well as ancient signs and symbols. What catches his eye in his immediate surroundings and invites him to record it, is reflected in the three works he chose: Village in the city, Organized chaos, and his most recent work, Urban woman. These works contain layers of symbols that also refer to the colonial history of Suriname.
From Sunil Puljhun’s triptych Tears of a Nation, two works will be displayed: one featuring the tower of the Ministry of Finance and Planning, and another featuring the towers of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter and Paul. With these works, the artist explores the tension between power and spirituality in Surinamese society. The towers dominate the skyline, yet their future remains uncertain.
Curator Myra Winter and co-curator Nellie Bakboord selected more Surinamese artists, mostly residing in Amsterdam, and Amsterdam artists with a strong connection to Suriname. The exhibition displays (historical) city views and work highlighting colonial, architectural, and personal themes connected to Paramaribo.
More information can be found at www.stadsherstel.nl/suriname.
René Tosari 
Sunil Puljhun