"Open(ing) Market" is an artwork by El Anatsui that forms part of his extensive body of work reflecting themes of word manipulation and global issues. This piece was featured in the exhibit "When I Last Wrote to You about Africa," which highlighted Anatsui's use of diverse mediums and his thematic consistency over a career spanning 40 years.

The packing process for "Open(ing) Market" was notably intensive, involving over 1,500 boxes, suggesting the artwork's complexity and possibly its large scale. Anatsui is renowned for his transformative use of materials, often repurposing found objects to create intricate and visually striking installations that comment on socio-economic, historical, and cultural themes. His work often explores the impact of globalization, the flow of goods and materials, and the intersection of African and global identities.

"Open(ing) Market" likely continues this exploration, engaging viewers with its intricate design and underlying commentary on markets as spaces of exchange, both economically and culturally. Anatsui's art challenges viewers to reflect on the broader implications of commerce, consumption, and the movement of goods in a globalized world, emphasizing the interconnectedness and complexities of modern societies.

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