Rediscovering Gustav Badin: An Exhibition at the National Museum of Stockholm

Gustav Badin, a Black child born between 1747 and 1750 in the former Danish colony of St. Croix, arrived at the Swedish royal court in 1760 as a "gift" to Queen Louisa Ulrika. Initially enslaved by Christian Lebrecht von Pröck, Badin was later "donated" to the queen by Gustaf de Brunck, a Swedish councillor of commerce. Throughout his life, Badin held various titles, including chamberlain, court secretary, and ballet master. Despite his significant contributions to Swedish society, he remains largely overlooked, with his writings and experiences under-researched.

The Guardian

The National Museum in Stockholm is hosting a landmark exhibition titled "Badin – Beyond Surface and Mask," which aims to shed light on Badin's life and legacy. This exhibition features his writings, including diaries and letters, displayed together for the first time. It also includes a specially commissioned film by Salad Hilowle, an African-Swedish artist dedicated to exploring Badin's narrative. Hilowle emphasizes the importance of recognizing Badin not just as an image but as a voice, stating, “The image of him is everywhere but no one seems to hear or read his own voice.”

The Guardian

Hilowle's film, "Maroonen" (The Marooned), creatively interprets Badin's writings, incorporating opera to enhance the emotional resonance of his words. In one poignant moment, an opera singer performs Badin's own text, “I as one of the Blacks,” as they navigate the museum space. This artistic approach aims to provide a deeper understanding of Badin's identity and experiences, which are often overshadowed by his status at court.

The Guardian

During the early 18th and 19th centuries, records indicate that only about 20 individuals of African origin lived in Sweden, making Badin's documented experiences particularly rare. His position at the royal court was unique; while he enjoyed certain freedoms, he was not part of the royal family. Åsa Bharathi Larsson, the exhibition's curator, notes that Badin's upbringing was influenced by the ideals of philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, allowing him to develop independently and receive an education uncommon for his time.

The Guardian

Hilowle reflects on the complexities of Badin's identity, suggesting that his assumed role as a joker may have been a survival mechanism. He posits that Badin's ability to navigate his environment while maintaining a façade of humor was crucial for his safety. Hilowle expresses a desire to further explore the emotional weight of Badin's experiences, stating, “There is also a lot of grief. It’s very interesting because it had to cost him a lot.”

The Guardian

The exhibition "Badin – Beyond Surface and Mask" not only seeks to honor Gustav Badin's contributions to Swedish culture but also aims to provide a nuanced understanding of his life as a Black individual in 18th-century Sweden. By amplifying Badin's voice through his writings and artistic interpretations, the exhibition invites a reevaluation of his legacy and the broader narratives surrounding race and identity in Swedish history.

The Guardian