Gijs Assmann, Niko Lee Gail Démoed, Bonno van Doorn, Mischa Doorenweerd, Daan Gielis, Maurice Gobert, Lisette van Hoogenhuyze, Bas van den Hurk, Susanne Khalil Yusef, Anastasia Kiseleva, Gijs van Lith, Hemaseh Manawi Rad, Cengiz Mengüç, Golrokh Nafisi, Ulrike Rehm, Niko Riedinger, Maria Roosen, Anđela Vidić and Manon Wertenbroek
Credits: Cengiz Mengüç
14 December 2019 - 16 February 2020
The pre- revolution films and music of Iran that my mother viewed and listened to, together with Western culture, which trickled in through the TV, formed my imagery and youth. Films, animations & music were swallowed up regularly in order to give meaning to the “inter-spatial” existence of an outsider. I think this assembly and (also referred to as) clash is still visible in my works. Whether it is interwoven in its entirety or where parts are shown as separate components in my works, the battle is visible in most cases. This is done through materials and techniques within various media. For the composition of a group show I went looking for artists to whom I feel connected, be it artistically, in the process or on a spiritual level.
“Traditionally, the Sofreh is a term for an iconic Persian fabric served as the backdrop for seasonal feasts and celebrations. Over time, the term itself has taken on a larger cultural significance: it refers to a gathering, a sharing, a place for family and friends to come together”
In this way I came naturally to a daily used Iranian word; Sofreh. One of the cultural characteristics that I have been able to inherit is the hospitality. In addition, the generosity that I would like to use artistically to furnish the space of NMAG with works by my related artist’s family & friends. An exhibition that generates gathering, using an old traditional cultural signifier.
- curated by Arash Fakhim
Photos: Chun-Han Chiang