N__ B__ Rose (R. Hennessy, 1931)

Jasmina Cibic
N__ B__ Rose (R. Hennessy, 1931)
In collaboration with Beatriz Inglessis
Inkjet print on cotton paper
2018

Roses have historically represented symbols with positive connotations, standing for purity, an expression of love and romance, or in the function of a national flower. It comes with no surprise that roses are also typically used to commemorate or honour distinguished public figures, celebrities and even politicians, giving rise to varieties such as Rosa Konrad Adenauer or Rosa Margaret Thatcher.

Jasmina Cibic asked scientific botanical illustrator Beatriz Inglessis to imagine how a rose named N__ B__ or G__ Rose (both existing breeds from 1931) could possibly look like to inspire such a name. In doing so, the artist continues not only to highlight the widespread offensive and racist remnants in culture but also their potential resurrection in our current social climate.