Exhibition in Stockholm Highlights Life of 18th-Century Black Diarist Badin
Swedish exhibition explores life of 18th-century Black diarist
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
A new exhibition at the National Museum in Stockholm, titled 'Badin – Beyond Surface and Mask,' explores the life of Adolf Ludvig Gustav Fredrik Albrecht Couschi, known as Badin, an 18th-century Black diarist who served at the Swedish royal court. The exhibition aims to provide a deeper understanding of his experiences and contributions to Swedish society.
- 01The exhibition showcases Badin's writings and personal artifacts for the first time.
- 02Badin, born into slavery in the former Danish colony of St Croix, was gifted to Queen Louisa Ulrika of Sweden.
- 03Artist Salad Hilowle created a film for the exhibition that reflects on Badin's life and legacy.
- 04Badin's status at the royal court allowed him unique opportunities, but his experiences are not representative of all Black individuals in Sweden at the time.
- 05The exhibition seeks to give Badin recognition and dignity, highlighting his sensitivity and fragility.
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The National Museum in Stockholm has launched an exhibition titled 'Badin – Beyond Surface and Mask,' focusing on the life of Adolf Ludvig Gustav Fredrik Albrecht Couschi, known as Badin. Born between 1747 and 1750 in the former Danish colony of St Croix (now part of the US Virgin Islands), Badin was brought to Sweden as a child and later became a chamberlain, court secretary, and ballet master. Despite his significant contributions, he remains largely overlooked in Swedish history. The exhibition features his diaries, letters, and a specially commissioned film by artist Salad Hilowle, who emphasizes the importance of recognizing Badin's voice and experiences. Hilowle's film, 'Maroonen (The Marooned),' imagines Badin reflecting on his life and the portrayal of Black individuals in Swedish culture. The exhibition aims to shed light on the complexities of Badin's life, portraying him as both a figure of status and a sensitive individual navigating a challenging social landscape.
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The exhibition provides a platform for discussing the historical presence of Black individuals in Sweden and their contributions, fostering a greater understanding of diversity in Swedish history.
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