Territories

In collaboration with the French Institute, Nicosia

Two talented artists, Asli Bolayir and Christine Chiorboli originating from two Mediterranean islands, Cyprus and Corsica, come together for this exhibition in order to reach a new perspective on the issue of territories and borders, both geographical and personal.

With an unexpected aesthetic approach Asli Bolayir explores the borders, using a series of flags made of various materials. This transitional space reveals an entrenched and interchangeable identity which accepts influences from various factors. Thus, her abstract paintings, of shapes and lines, refer to geological landscapes, which not only consist of outlines, but also of ruptures and cracks. Through her work, the artist proposes the exploration of spatial identity, questioning even the very idea of belonging, which is reflected in her own interpretation of the well-known “You are here” Google Maps index.

Adopting Ptolemy’s report, one of the precursors of geography, stating that the map shows things that we are unable to see, Christine Chiorboli attempts to present the borders by examining files of soil studies which also indicate a relationship with time. Therefore, the Corsican artist tackles the artistic dimension in relation to the reliability of the scientific image, creating a new way of presenting this geometric space. Through a game of opposites’ correlation, she intersects the reference points and allows for the creative power to play its role. Her work includes primarily the removal of all signs and reference points of this kind as they do not assist her in any way, despite the fact that the map is there to guide us in order to find our way. In this way, the viewer's imagination is ultimately what gives meaning to the new map.

Exhibition Opening:
Tuesday, 2 December at 19:30

Opening Hours:
2 – 16 December 2014
Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 17:00