August 6, 2024 | Tuesday
By Laureta Hajrullahu and Shkamb Jaka, exhibition curators
Six arts students of the University of Pristina were gathered around the “A Fusion of Realities” exhibition that opened at Europe House Pristina on June 26. Selected with great care by their mentor – Professor Yll Xhaferi – these artworks of six young and emerging artists showcase diverse practices, each uniquely representing a different layer of reality.
Below we are bringing the curatorial text by exhibition curators Laureta Hajrullahu and Shkamb Jaka, to give you a closer look at what each artwork represents.
A Fusion of Realities is indicative of individuality and collective creativity, showcasing an eclectic mix of painting, installation, sculpture and video. Each artist presents a separate reality, a personal universe of ideas and feelings, but together they form a collaborative space, a presentation of the power of differences in artistic practice and transformative potential.
Rinor Dauti, inspired by the concepts of John Keane, explores the “new despotism”, a form of domination distinct from authoritarianism and totalitarianism.
Dauti’s works, with objects placed on banknotes, slam the system by pointing out how privileged segments accumulate wealth at the expense of society.
Rinea Mustafa, with her work, tackles the visual pollution and cognitive overload that resembles advertisements prompting viewers to act, think and consume. Using “chat boxes” and repeated messages as a concept, she encourages a meditative state, allowing the viewer to experience the work privately in the dark.
Elienta Culaj’s work combines poster designs and photographs, by intertwining old and contemporary elements. Inspired by TV Junior movies of the 90s, her posters feature Pop Art, minimalism and 3D art, capturing a spontaneous and experimental spirit. Her photography, influenced by Carl Jung’s archetypes, uses shadows and movements to add depth and evoke new dimensions of perception.
Diellza Hyseni aims to capture the complexity of human interaction through a video format, where she explores how human communication goes beyond words, focusing on non-verbal expressions such as mimicry. She suggests that mimicry echoes deeper emotions and intentions, fostering empathy and connection. This concept challenges us to consider authenticity versus imitation, emphasizing the role of nonverbal cues in understanding interpersonal dynamics.
Diona Ramadani’s psychedelic paintings are an exploration of colour and form. Each canvas teems with dynamic overtones and abstract compositions, creating a visually engaging experience. Through these works, Ramadani invites viewers to delve into their emotions, whereas, through abstraction, she encourages personal interpretation.
Jeta Neziri uses surreal images and hyper-realistic details in her drawings and sculptures. Through her work, she investigates the interplay between space and perception, creating a dream that challenges viewers to reconsider their surroundings.
Basically, this exhibition is a display of artistic synergies. Each work, while distinct in its voice and practice, contributes to a larger narrative of coexistence and interaction.
By bringing these six artists together, A Fusion of Realities not only showcases their unique works, but also suggests that our experiences and expressions can connect to create something much greater.