Schinkel Pavillon opens the exhibition The Burden of Papa Tonnerre with works by Pol Taburet on 28 March 2025. Paintings and sculptures by the artist will be on display.
Abb. oben: Pol Tabouret, The Burden of Papa Tonnere, photo Romain Darnaud
Pol Taburet’s work is a heady and iconoclastic mix of references that range from the artist’s own Caribbean background, the region’s syncretic voodoo traditions and belief systems, wider contemporary culture, and classical painting. At the heart of the exhibition lies the legend of Papa Tonnerre, a mute figure burdened with the secrets of others. In his silence, he becomes the village’s confessor, carrying the weight of desires, vices, and fears on his body. Seeking release, he strikes a deal with a witch, gaining speech in exchange for a set of stolen relics: a bell, a trumpet, a beast-headed vial, and some pepper. But his newfound voice leads to his downfall—overcome by rage, he betrays those who once trusted him, unleashing their darkest truths upon the world. His punishment is exile, condemned to speak forever into the void, never to be heard again
WHERE?
Schinkel Pavillon
Oberwallstraße 32
10117 Berlin
WHEN?
Opening: Friday, 28th March 2025, 6 – 9 pm
Exhibition dates: Saturday, 29th March – Sunday, 13th July 2025
