Curatorial Rationale

This exhibition is centred around the interlinking themes of family and culture. As a third-culture kid, I have always struggled with my sense of belonging. It has been challenged throughout my entire life. “Where are you from?” - a seemingly simple question. However, I always hesitate to answer. My parents who are both Iranian, have always reinforced Persian traditions; however, my younger sister and I grew up in Germany, which builds a contrasting environment. This blend of cultures is confusing and leads to a frustrating sense of disorientation that is embodied within my work.

I mainly worked with acrylic paint to represent my cultural situation. Painting patterns helped me convey ideas in an expressive manner. A specific segment of my exhibition also consists of photographic work. Photography was significant in the development of my pieces, as it enabled me to experiment with different elements like lighting, make-up, the incorporation of traditional Persian objects, etc. One photographic piece is displayed within my exhibition. It is a pivotal work that marks peak creative exploration.

I intend viewers to observe my exhibition from left to right, as it accurately depicts the development of my art and how I implemented various ideas within my overarching theme. The first board reflects the contrasting concept between how things are perceived versus their true nature. This is embodied through the minimalistic style of the paintings, which seem to be detached from the rest of the exhibition. They do not reveal much at first glance. However, further observation hopefully allows viewers to conclude that the works are centred around both connections and disconnections within family. “VISION I” is preceded by “VISION II”, as the latter creates a base for the core feelings of my exhibition. It grasps the idea of being lost within one’s cultural identity. The second board drags viewers into a world of red (often tied to the symbolism of blood). These pieces primarily convey the internal conflict that originates due to being confronted with disparate cultures. “My shadow, my friend?” is arranged vertically, creating a sense of rhythm within my exhibition, due to the preceding artworks having the same structure. With every photograph I increased the zoom setting, thus drawing the viewer closer and gradually guiding them through the subject’s mind. The next piece is displayed vertically, for it to be observed like a film. This arrangement creates clear distinctions between stages of cultural disorientation. My key piece “PERSONA” is hung high in the right corner emphasising its scale and dominating nature.

The final board captures the notion of being ejected from a comforting environment which contributes to disconnection. “Blindfolded” expresses detachment powerfully; thus it is displayed first. Black flowing fabric is hung above the painting. This reinforces the contrast between safety and darkness. Despite having a positive association with the black scarf which belonged to my grandmother, it expresses a certain darkness by acting as a veil that impairs vision. It embodies a sense of being lost.

The segment that ties together my exhibition is an installation (in the right corner between the second and third board). It consists of traditional Persian elements including one of my family’s carpets, saffron, a tea set, books etc. which introduce an interactive element, helping viewers visualise Persian culture and its contrast to the surrounding environment. It simulates a traditional Persian seating area, which I reinforced by hanging two of the pieces lower. Viewers are meant to sit down on the carpet to observe part of my art.