Reem Alnasser unveils the profound connections between personal experiences, anthropological study, and artistic expression. Through a captivating interview, Alnasser shares her journey of self-discovery and creative exploration, delving into themes of time, space, symbolism, and cultural identity. Discover how her diverse range of mediums, from photography to installations, serves as a canvas for unravelling the complexities of human behaviour and societal dynamics. Join us as we unravel the layers of Alnasser’s thought-provoking work, where each piece becomes a testament to the fusion of art and anthropology, bridging the gap between the tangible and the abstract.
Your art is deeply influenced by your personal experiences. Could you share a specific moment or incident that had a profound impact on your artistic journey and the themes you explored?
Personal experience plays a pivotal role in shaping artistic expression, serving as a conduit for narrative exploration across various dimensions, including the perception of time. As an artist, I find myself deeply immersed in the documentation of my own journey and the emerging trends within it. My fascination with history, antiquities, literature, and their interconnectedness with place fuels my creative endeavours. A pivotal moment occurred when I discovered a profound convergence between my agricultural surroundings and the surrounding decorative forms, prompting me to craft artworks that aim to archive art in alignment with narrative coherence. Through rigorous research and introspection, I endeavour to unravel the essence and origins of the phenomena I encounter.
Your use of diverse mediums, from photography to graffiti, is intriguing. How do these various forms of expression contribute to the depth of your artwork, and how do you decide which medium best captures the essence of a particular narrative?
The selection of media follows thorough research, reflecting my keen interest in aligning the chosen medium with the intricate nuances of the situation at hand. Delving into psychological, emotional, and archaeological dimensions, I aim to grasp their interconnectedness with the subject matter. Each artistic endeavour prompts a critical inquiry into the most suitable style and context to encapsulate the desired message effectively. Thus, the process involves a meticulous consideration of the overarching goal I intend to convey through my work.
Your work is grounded in anthropological study. Can you elaborate on how this approach informs your artistic process? How do you bridge the gap between the practical aspects of social sciences and the more abstract concepts like time, space, and astrology in your creations?
Studying anthropology has been instrumental in my quest to comprehend human behaviours, their underlying motivations, and the cultural contexts that shape them. This journey naturally steered me towards the study of ancient civilizations, where I uncovered a profound connection between humanity and the celestial realm. Exploring the intricate relationship between ancient societies and the cosmos has enriched my understanding of human behaviour and the profound significance of celestial phenomena in shaping cultural narratives.
You often use yourself as a subject in your studies. How does this personal involvement contribute to your understanding of culture, gender dynamics, and interpersonal relationships? What challenges and rewards come with being both the observer and the observed?
Utilizing myself as a subject for study plays a pivotal role in my exploration process, enabling me to delve into the intricacies of my own projections and experiences. By isolating prior impressions, I approach each encounter with a fresh perspective, fostering a deeper understanding and flexibility in connecting disparate elements. It’s akin to mastering a unique language; navigating through various dimensions of behaviour and vision enriches my interaction with different mediums, leading to a continual journey of discovery and fulfilment.
Your installations often explore the guiding symbols and meanings in our everyday lives. Can you share an example of how a particular symbol or theme manifested in your work and the significance it holds within the broader context of your artistic Exploration?
Symbols and their significance hold a pivotal role in decoding the cultural and temporal trends of a specific era. In my recent project, “The Shine of the North,” I explored the symbolic representations adorning the gates of Mada’in Saleh, resembling the majestic wings of eagles. These directional symbols, imbued with diverse meanings, prompted me to delve deeper into their origins through the lens of Arab star names. Surprisingly, this investigation unveiled their connection to ancient military navigation practices. Today, these symbols persist in military contexts, offering profound insights into the enduring symbolism of the eagle across different epochs. Moreover, their integration into celestial navigation underscores their timeless relevance in guiding pathways amidst light and darkness, echoing the eternal wisdom of the North Star as a celestial beacon.
