‘Are we Human or Are We Spam?’ project started at NARS Foundation Artist Residency in New York in 2019 and has most recently been exhibited at Start Art Fair at Saatchi Gallery in London in October 2020.
‘Are We Human or Are We Spam?’ addresses rape, sexual abuse and power dynamics in the relationships.
I am interested in discrepancies between our values, real and perceived, and the influence of media and social norms encouraging chauvinism and misogyny.
The artworks contrast the rape trial of feminist Italian Baroque painter Artemisia Gentileschi with extracts from an recent interview with a survivor of sexual abuse, and the artist’s personal experience.
The pieces create a conversation between the past and the present uncannily revealing similarities of both of the stories that happened more than 400 years apart.
Abstract expressive illustrations based on my research and experience are layered with text including subtle day to day phrases we encounter, Artemisia’s trial testimony, and a part of the interview with recent rape survivor.
Second part of the project focuses on healing and recovery from trauma. It explores body liberation, spirituality, letting go, internal chaos yet positive outlook.
The sculptures in this series are on the other hand minimalist and symbolic, creating a commentary and challenging the issue of gender discrimination overall.
‘Are we human or are we spam’ empowers women and men and asks the audience to reevaluate how we see ourselves. Our vulnerabilities make us stronger. My work has always encouraged honest portrayal of reality, which is the first step to progress. My artwork shows people as they are, beautiful no matter of their past or present circumstances, mental health conditions or abuse they experienced.
