Artist Ali, an architect and artist, explores the interplay between materiality and space, using his work to invite viewers on a metaphysical journey beyond the physical realm. At the Larnaca Biennale 2023, his installation The Home Unknown—a reflection on life, death, and the deeds that shape our eternal “home”—earned him the prestigious grand prix award.
Ali described the experience as a milestone in his artistic journey and cherished the opportunity to showcase his work internationally, connect with global artists, and experience the beauty and hospitality of Larnaca. Captivated by Larnaca’s beauty and the Biennale’s collaborative spirit, he encourages aspiring artists to embrace this opportunity for growth and creative exchange.
Who is artist ali? Share with us a few things about you and your work in general.
As an architect, space and material have been my primary preoccupations. Space is a possibility only when you are inside of it. And hence the spatial is the condition of inhabiting, of being immersed. The material on the other hand is what renders space visible, and gives us access to it. The material in this manner helps contextualize the spatial. Inherently, the material is a condition of being on the outside. It is this unique relationship, where the material becomes the gatekeeper to the spatial realm, and in extension to the realm of ideas, that is the focus of my work. There has been an intentional effort to direct the work so that one is at once transported through the material dimension of the work to the spatial dimension of the idea. The work in this manner is a device to enter into the metaphysical, so that we may consider that which lies beyond the bounds of materiality. Irrespective of the scale of work, the viewer is engulfed by it, persuaded to inhabit it and wander beyond.
The body of work
My art is an invitation. I ask the viewer to journey with me into the depths of one’s being. Through this journey I hope we can transcend this world of surfaces so that we may encounter our true nature and in doing so come to terms with this existence and our role in it. Each work is intended to speak with the other, revealing slowly the beauty of a complex inner whole, which while seemingly separate from, is inextricably connected to humanity, the cosmos and God.
What was your reaction when you heard that you were awarded? Larnaca Biennale Team announced it to you through a video call on the awards presentation!
When I heard the news that I had been awarded during a video call with the Larnaca Biennale Team, I was absolutely overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. It was a surreal moment for me, filled with a rush of emotions – excitement, disbelief, and immense appreciation. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever felt that mix of emotions before. That moment will definitely stick with me forever. It’s a huge milestone in my art journey, one I’ll treasure always.
by ali (Mohammed Umar Sharief)
India , Mud, mull, grains
500x600x450cm
Tell us a few words about your awarded installation ”The home unknown”.
The Home Unknown’ is the first installation of the series ‘Home’. The installation is a reminder to death being the real home that one must look forward to entering.
“Men are asleep but when they die, they wake up”
– Prophet Muhammad
Our life exists with no certainty of tomorrow. Yet we make a “home” of this life (alternatively “make this life a home”), knowing that one day we must leave it all behind. The only real things we carry to our graves are our deeds. Death is the first step into our new home. One that our deeds help build. The art installation is a device to contemplate one’s life as a journey back “home” through the threshold of death.
Metaphors and The Device;
mull: the fabric used to shroud the dead signifies death itself.
mud: the substance of which we are made and from which we must return, is a metaphor for man
grains: that which is sown today to reap tomorrow’s harvest, is a metaphor for our deeds in this life
You have visited Larnaca for the setting of your installation in September 2023. What was your overall impression of Larnaca and Larnaca Biennale 2023?
Larnaca, my first international destination, holds a special place in my memory. It’s a truly beautiful city with stunning beaches and breathtaking sunrises—some of the best I’ve ever seen. The hospitality of the team, particularly Maria and Mike, was exceptional. Overall, my impression of Larnaca and the biennale was overwhelmingly positive.
Meeting Yev Kravt, the curator of the Larnaca Biennale, was very interesting and insightful. Her vision of weaving together the whole theme was incredible. Also, Mike’s (Biennale coordinator) assistance was invaluable in making my installation possible during the Larnaca Biennale 2023.
A message you would like to send to artists that will apply in the future for participation in the Larnaca Biennale.
As my first international exhibition experience, the biennale not only provided a platform for showcasing my work but also exposed me to a diverse range of artists and ideas. It’s a fantastic opportunity to expand your artistic horizons and connect with the vibrant cultural scene of Larnaca, as well as with artists from around the world. I highly encourage aspiring participants to seize this chance for growth and collaboration.