Staub zu Licht [Dust to Light]

April 04, 2025 in 2025

"Dust to Light - Palimpsest of Renewal" (Staub zu Licht - Palimpsest der Erneuerung) transforms the concept of historical reconciliation into a dynamic art installation for Cologne Cathedral.

Hallucinating Traditions

January 01, 2024 in 2024

Hallucinating Traditions explores the intersection of AI, fashion, and cultural identity through animated portraits of Azra Akšamija wearing speculative headgear designs. Using a diverse dataset of Akšamija's face and historical costume references, advanced AI software was trained to generate morphing portraits that blend elements from various traditions and eras. The fluid transitions challenge viewers to reconsider notions of identity and tradition, while the AI-generated designs offer a glimpse into a future where technology shapes personal adornment and cultural expression. The project represents a meditation on the role of technology in shaping our understanding of self and cultural traditions. The portraits act as "cultural prototypes," inviting contemplation of the shifting ideals, values, and aesthetics that define our past, present, and future.

Flocking

January 01, 2024 in 2024

Inspired by the geometric motifs of Islamic art, the piece consists of modular felt carpet that can be transformed into slippers, accommodating both religious and secular functions.

Glass Helmet

January 01, 2021 in 2021

The Glass Helmet is a component of the Silk Road Works (2021). As a symbol of protection for workers in the building industry, the helmet represents a sanctuary where their rights are safeguarded, and their well-being is prioritized; the vulnerability of these rights is reflected in the fragility of the glass material. The blue color of the helmet also evokes the United Nations' Blue Helmets, symbolizing the importance of international peacekeeping efforts and the protection of global stability. The Glass Helmet represents a call for the creation of inclusive, supportive environments that provide a sense of security and belonging for all in the face of global challenges.

PHOTO-2021-05-23-16-36-25 2Photo by Azra Aksamija.jpg

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s_20210225_163754Photo by Sandrine Welte.jpg

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Silk Road Works

January 01, 2021 in 2021

“Silk Road Works” is a symbolic construction site for a pluralist society. The project deploys architectural storytelling to offer a border reflection on issues of migration, labor, and identity politics along the Silk Road in history and today. Three responses to the Biennale theme “How will we live together?” are assembled through three Silk-Road themed architectural wearables: construction workers’ safety vests made of silks from various regions of the Silk Road, coveralls made of Venetian Rubelli fabric, and hard hats made by Murano glass masters of blue glass.

Diaspora Scroll: Loom

January 01, 2018 in 2018

The Diaspora Scroll is a growing textile book that deconstructs myths of nationalism and local traditions through the embroidery patterns, which depict personal histories of migration, and the creation process, which facilitates transcultural exchange. The project takes the form through the sourcing, analysis of textile art, design, and techniques around the world, as well as through collaborative embroidery. Collaborating textile artists are invited to contribute to the project by […]