Fault Lines, a solo presentation of recent works by Lebanese artist Ramzi Mallat, has been extended and will close with an artist talk on Saturday 2 December.
The artist will be in conversation with independent curator Najlaa El-Ageli and Yahya Zaloom, director of P21 Gallery. The talk will provide insight into the artist’s practice and cover themes raised by the works in the exhibition.
Living and working between London and Beirut, Ramzi Mallat explores the socio-political impact of globalisation on notions of identity and self. He hopes to broaden cross-cultural awareness with work that blends both familiar and unfamiliar aspects of culture while questioning the idea of the respective Other.
Drawing on a rich tapestry of theological and folkloric history of the Levant region, Mallat’s work challenges the role of tradition in conventional definitions of civilisation. The artist taps into personal and collective memories through objects and symbols, which range from alluring references to Levantine pastries and coffee culture to stark depictions of political monuments and ambiguous Arabic calligraphy. Titles like Shock & Awe or Not Your Martyr add a layer of provocation to encourage a multifaceted discourse on the wider concept of fault lines.
Recent developments in the region further heighten the poignancy of his 2022 video documentary Sobhiye, which highlights the impact of historical and political events on the lives of ordinary citizens.
The exhibition is hosted by P21 Gallery with generous support from HUB Collective.
Press release from P21 Gallery
