Sourtna. Carte Blanche to Yoriyas. Moroccan Photographers of Today and Tomorrow
Morocco
Rabat
2021
10
The compelling work of Yoriyas, a distinguished photographer and performance artist hailing from Casablanca, offers a profound exploration of urban dynamics. His unique artistic trajectory began with a background as a professional breakdancer, coupled with a deep engagement in mathematics and chess, before his pivotal transition to photography in 2015. Through a vibrant and intuitive lens, Yoriyas delves into the multifaceted utilization of city spaces, meticulously capturing the evolving tapestry of daily life and societal transformation across Morocco and the broader African continent. Garnering international acclaim, his evocative imagery has been featured in prestigious publications such as the New York Times, highlighting his significant contribution to contemporary art and the ongoing discourse surrounding urban experience.
Why should you watch this?
This compelling exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience the urban landscape anew through the transformative lens of Yoriyas, an artist whose work profoundly explores movement and human interaction within contemporary cityscapes. In an era marked by rapid urbanization and evolving public spaces, Yoriyas’s compositions resonate deeply, inviting viewers to perceive their surroundings with fresh eyes. His distinctive background in dance, mathematics, and chess shines through in his photographic practice, creating images that are not only masterfully balanced but also rich in complex layers, mirroring the intricate dynamics of modern life. Furthermore, this showcase features his latest project, born from a recent residency, which delves into the captivating world of parkour and other performance art forms, directly engaging with the city alongside the Parkour59 association. This exploration underscores the vital role of art in reclaiming and reinterpreting urban environments, offering profound insights into how physical expression can redefine public space and foster new narratives of identity and community. By immersing yourself in Yoriyas’s work, you will uncover how his innovative spirit invites a critical look at the world around us, ensuring you walk away with new insights and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of urban existence and human connection in our rapidly evolving world.
Klaus Staeck. Sand for the Gears
Germany
Essen
2018
55
Why should you watch this?
Klaus Staeck’s exhibition resonates deeply with contemporary audiences, serving as a powerful reminder of art’s capacity to provoke thought and inspire social change. In an age marked by political polarization and social unrest, Staeck’s nearly 180 posters challenge us to confront uncomfortable truths and reflect on the role of dissent in shaping public discourse. His bold, often scandalous imagery speaks to the importance of artists as catalysts for conversation, urging society to engage with pressing issues such as inequality, identity, and civic responsibility. As we navigate our own crises today, Staeck’s work underscores the timeless relevance of art as a tool for advocacy and a vehicle for sparking new dialogues. This exhibition not only honors a pivotal figure in art history but also invites us to consider how we, too, can use creativity to effect change in our communities.
Agitprop Trains
Russia
Moscow
2018
55
The exhibition delves into a groundbreaking aspect of Russian cultural history birthed from the revolution—mobile propaganda trains. These unique vehicles served as a fusion of art and technology, transforming into vibrant mobile platforms that combined exhibitions, theater, libraries, and cinema on wheels. Launched in 1918 under the directive of the All-Russian Central Executive Committee, these trains traversed vast distances, reaching from Odessa to Irkutsk and engaging communities with their painted exteriors and rich artistic content. Supervised by renowned graphic artist Ignatiy Nivinsky, the trains featured contributions from a diverse array of artists, blending Symbolism with early avant-garde ideas. This exhibition promises an in-depth exploration of their socio-political significance during the Civil War, showcasing archival photos, posters, and various artifacts that capture the ethos of an era where art became instrumental in uniting and inspiring a nation.
Why should you watch this?
Watching a guided tour of this exhibition is particularly essential in today’s context, as it illuminates the enduring power of art as a vehicle for social change and collective identity. In a world increasingly fractured by division and misinformation, the exhibition serves as a poignant reminder of how creative expression can be mobilized to unite communities and convey critical messages. As contemporary society grapples with its own political upheavals, understanding the historical context of these mobile propaganda trains reveals the importance of merging various forms of media and art to engage the public constructively. This tour not only highlights the innovative spirit of artists who contributed to the movement but also encourages dialogue about the role of culture in shaping our narratives and responding to social challenges.