“In my recent works, I have been exploring the idea of memory and its relationship to time and place. Our memories are a refined and processed version of our thoughts regarding specific events, with much of the information reduced to an absolute abstraction or fragment of the recollection. We are usually unable to recall the crucial elements that are key to the memory puzzle, forcing us to reach for logic through a maze of disconnected segments.
In my work I attempt to rewrite or recollect the pieces of memories from moments in my past which I recall through prescient glimmers to create a new image or object for others to experience. For me, the installations’ creative process is a way of retaining my strongest recollections that have stayed with me through the years while merging them into physical objects relevant to my personal history.
The process involves transcribing my earliest memories using Persian calligraphy, referred to as the “Black Practice” or the Siyah Mashq method. I cover the page entirely with writing in every direction. The dense pages are screen-printed onto Japanese paper. These are then deconstructed further by cutting each page into narrow ribbon-like shreds, which are reassembled to create the final pieces.
These ephemeral text fragments are used to construct delicate fabric weaves. In some of my newest work I have incorporated mirror-like material along with the calligraphic text, to cause the viewer to self-reflect and be immersed in my woven memory. Other pieces in this series are heavily blacked-out and contemplate the idea of how memories are often truncated and redacted, with only subconsciously selected fragments retained. By infusing sculptural elements with my earliest memories, I am using my process to preserve the more powerful reminiscences that have permanently lived with me over the test of time.”
-Shabnam K. Ghazi
Opening Reception
March 27, 2021 10:00 am – 5:00 pmArtist Links
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Included Artworks
artwork detail
The happiness of getting a perfect score, 2021
Shabnam K. Ghaziunique screenprint on silk fabric - weaved, 34” x 34”
artwork detail
Antique Spools V, 2021
Shabnam K. GhaziJapanese tissue, screenprint , wooden spools (unique) dimensions variable
Garden of Thoughts II, 2021
Shabnam K. GhaziJapanese tissue, screenprint (unique) 7.5” x 7.5” x 3.5”
Cherry Earrings, 2021 & Sunflower Petals, 2021
Shabnam K. GhaziJapanese tissue, screenprint (unique) 64” x 8” - each
Tehran Was Getting Warmer and Warmer, 2021
Shabnam K. GhaziJapanese tissue, screenprint (unique) 48” x 4”
