SILENCE: A Luminous Meditation on Presence.

Upbringing in The War Backdrop

The sounds and flashes of fireworks have always evoked ambivalence for me. Growing up in a war-torn environment, the echoes of explosions and sniper bullets were an unsettling part of my daily reality. As a result, what many consider the soundtrack of celebration became for me a reminder of violence and instability. It's a dissonance that continues to resonate, even more so after the devastating explosion that rocked Beirut, Lebanon, in 2020—an event that turned an already controversial symbol of joy into a mark of unspeakable tragedy for many. For those unfamiliar, the Beirut explosion was a catastrophic event caused by the detonation of improperly stored ammonium nitrate, resulting in hundreds of deaths, thousands of injuries, and widespread destruction.

The Allegory of Fireworks

In "Silence," fireworks serve as more than just literal pyrotechnic displays. They become an allegory for all activities and choices that cause harm to our environment and well-being. From pollution to deforestation, and even excessive consumption, these metaphorical "fireworks" are actions that may bring short-lived joy but leave lasting negative impacts.

They provided not just food but also materials for crafting mats, baskets, and ropes. Their deep roots served as ecological stabilizers in a challenging landscape, while their presence in Sumerian mythology signified their spiritual and cultural importance, often associated with fertility deities. These majestic plants were not merely ornamental; they were, and continue to be, sources of sustenance and utility. From the deserts of the Middle East to the tropics of Asia and the Americas, the palm tree's universal presence tells a story of human survival, adaptability, and reverence for nature. Their form—bursting fronds reaching towards the heavens—has made them enduring symbols of aspiration and triumph. Yet, in the modern world, these ecological marvels have been relegated to mere decorative elements, often overlooked for their historical and ongoing contributions to human life. "Silence" seeks to reclaim this legacy, illuminating the palms as both ancient sustainers and modern-day reminders of the harmonious beauty that can exist between humanity and nature. Historically, palm trees were providers of sustenance, but today they are often relegated to ornamental roles. Their shape resembles that of fireworks—bursts of fronds reaching skyward, as if nature's own spectacle. These palms are illuminated silently and sustainably, becoming a metaphor for the beauty that already exists without our harmful interventions.

Silence as Inclusivity

Silence in this piece is far from passive; it's a deliberate choice to create an inclusive space for all affected by the negative aspects of loud and destructive human activities. This includes survivors of war and trauma struggling with PTSD, animals disoriented by noise and pollution, and even trees and natural landscapes often harmed by our choices. The silence invites contemplation, serving as a sanctuary from the often overwhelming, harmful noise of the world.

 Invitation to Change

"Silence" is a call to action—an invitation to reconsider the ways in which we interact with the world around us. It asks viewers to replace the metaphorical fireworks of unsustainable living with mindful actions that create a lasting, resonant beauty.

By weaving together these multiple layers, from personal experiences to environmental and societal implications, "Silence" offers more than a visual experience. It's a journey toward self-awareness and broader systemic change, imploring us to envision and strive for a world where beauty and celebration don't come at the cost of well-being, trauma, or environmental degradation.

On View until August 25th, 2023

"Influx" is an ongoing series where I explore the intersection of geometric modeling, mathematical origami, and computational design, using mesh to challenge the traditional confines of paper folding techniques. Inspired by the precision of "folded annulus with multiple creases," these sculptures are my homage to the natural and mathematical patterns that orchestrate biological growth. They emerge as three-dimensional interpretations of developable surfaces, where calculated curvature and torsion dialogue with the art of folding and cast intricate shadows.

As viewers encounter "Influx," they are drawn into a landscape of intersecting lines and threaded paths that trace my sculpture's folds, guiding them through its topology. Though static, they suggest motion, swaying gently, their forms appearing to dance and fold into themselves. This series merges classic origami techniques with computational methods, creating a collection where mathematical precision is expressed through the fluidity of material and light.

Adhering to strict angles and folds, I've discovered that the materials ultimately have the final say. This process of trial, and oh so many errors, leads to surprising revelations. It embodies the Zen art of folding but with a twist—a relaxed, hands-on approach where each piece brings its own discovery. And that's where the flow is.

Through "Influx," I aspire to transcend conventional boundaries, connecting advanced computational techniques with the ancient practice of origami. This fusion of art and science, where mathematical rigor informs artistic expression, invites viewers into a space pulsating with tension and dynamism, encouraging contemplation of the balance between mathematical precision and the unpredictability of physical mediums.

This series is my quest to understand the underlying codes of life as seen through the patterns in nature, a curiosity towards the unseen forces that shape our world, made visible through the language of folds and shadows. "Influx" is an exploration of form that invites us to consider the unseen dimensions of our reality, offering a moment to engage with forms that are as evocative and dynamic as the unseen dimensions they seek to reveal.