Museum MACAN is set to captivate audiences this November with an extraordinary exhibition, Primate Visions: Macaque Macabre, the debut institutional solo show by the talented Indonesian artist Natasha Tontey. Presented in collaboration with Audemars Piguet Contemporary, this groundbreaking exhibition promises a vivid exploration of the intricate and often paradoxical connections between humans and the black crested macaque (locally known as the yaki) of Minahasa.
Running from 16 November 2024 to 6 April 2025, this multisensory showcase delves deep into speculative fiction, weaving elements of primatology, ecofeminism, and technology into an immersive narrative. Tontey describes her work as “a world both playful and macabre, filled with radical oddities.” The exhibition challenges anthropocentric viewpoints, inviting viewers to reflect on their interactions with the non-human world and to consider the cultural boundaries that separate species.
Through a series of immersive installations and videos, Tontey sheds light on the overlooked cultural heritage of the yaki, offering fresh perspectives on coexistence and interconnectedness. By blending art with science and folklore, the artist has created a space where the lines between species blur, encouraging collaboration and empathy in a shared ecosystem.
Audemars Piguet Contemporary’s Vision
Audemars Piguet Contemporary, known for supporting visionary artists who push boundaries, collaborated closely with Tontey and Museum MACAN to bring this ambitious project to life. The result is a vibrant and transformative journey into speculative storytelling.
“This work reveals the unexpected similarities between humans and other species and envisions a more collaborative future, reflecting our belief in the power of creativity to connect people,” shared a representative from Audemars Piguet.
An Invitation to Engage
For watch and art enthusiasts, Primate Visions: Macaque Macabre presents a rare opportunity to experience the synergy between cultural traditions, modern artistry, and the timeless pursuit of understanding our place in the world. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate craftsmanship of Audemars Piguet or the profound storytelling of Natasha Tontey, this exhibition promises a feast for the senses and the soul.
Don’t miss this chance to explore a world where art meets activism, and fiction inspires reality. Visit Museum MACAN and immerse yourself in the world of the yaki from November 2024.
For more information, visit Museum MACAN’s website.
