Ithra Art Prize–winning work – The Revolt – (chapter IV)
This work explores a pivotal chapter in Arab history, navigating the elusive nature of events shaped by fragmented archives, scarce documentation, and the inherent ambiguity of oral transmission. Across time, the reality of the Zanj Rebellion has been continuously refracted through the perspectives and biases of its chroniclers.
At the core of the piece is an innovative stamping process using the Arabic word “عن” (meaning on the authority of / from). The work distinguishes between more reliable and less reliable accounts, revealing the fragility of historical narration and the organic, shifting nature of memory. The selective stamping on layered kozo paper generates a subtle anamorphic illusion, suggesting the partial preservation—and inevitable loss—of this ancient uprising.
Installation view
Details
Details:
- Kozo paper work
- Suspended cotton canvas
- Dim.: 400 × 250 cm
- 40 gsm kozo paper
- Ink on canvas
- With thanks to Sara Théodore