A Fascinating Exploration of Femininity, Mythology, and Cultural Fabric: "Beneath the Earth and Above the Clouds"
Female Empowerment Highlighted by Central Asian Artists at New York Art Showcase
Welcome, friends! Let's delve into the vibrant world of art as we unravel the intricacies of the exhibition "Beneath the Earth and Above the Clouds," masterfully crafted by artists Altynai Osmo from Kyrgyzstan and Aya Shalkar from Kazakhstan, showcased at New York's Sapar Contemporary. This spectacular event is slated to run until May 15.
One step into this breathtaking exhibition, and it's evident these artists have conjured a magical realm that beautifully combines femininity, identity, and cultural significance. So, gird your loins as we embark on this journey and uncover the hidden layers of Central Asian artistry!
Redefining Female Identities
At the heart of this exhibition lies a profound exploration of the complexity and versatility of women's roles in Central Asian societies. Osmo and Shalkar deftly weave together contemporary feminist perspectives with ancient narratives, seamlessly intertwining history, mythology, tradition, and spirituality. These artists have gone to considerable lengths to honor their cultural legacy while delving deep into the multifaceted nature of women in Central Asia.
Myth, Magic, and Memory
Shalkar's contributions to the exhibition include captivating pieces like "The World of Peri," an imagined matriarchal civilization, and the immersive installation "Mergen." Here, the burial site of a female warrior centaur comes to life, adorned with symbolic objects such as silver spines, engraved archer's rings, and celestial iron arrowheads. These objects draw from Kazakh cultural codes, as well as Shalkar's personal memories, creating a powerful this-worldly connection to the supernatural.
Timeless Heroines of Epic Proportions
In contrast, Osmo's works, like the "Kyrk Kyz" series, celebrate the legendary warrior maidens of Kyrgyz nomadic traditions. Hand-crafted from felt, cupro-nickel, and zircon, these striking masks are adorned with traditional embroidery. Meanwhile, her "Umai Ene" sculpture pays tribute to Umai, the ancient Turkic goddess of fertility and motherhood. Osmo highlights the divine feminine force within Tengrism, drawing upon myths and legends to emphasize the indispensable role of women in shaping Central Asian culture.
The Power of Representation and Reclamation
By positioning women as archetypal heroes, Osmo and Shalkar carve out a space for female agency in Central Asian societies, challenging traditional narratives and roles. Furthermore, this exhibition offers a global platform for Central Asian artists, demonstrating the richness and diversity of regional narratives. In today's political climate, this empowering portrayal of feminine power is particularly relevant, underscoring the profound impact women have on shaping cultural identities.
Overall, the "Beneath the Earth and Above the Clouds" exhibition is an unmissable journey through Central Asian mythology, tradition, and spirituality. Immensely engaging and thought-provoking, it promises to captivate visitors until its closing on May 15. Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to experience the raw, unadulterated beauty of Central Asian artistry and female empowerment!
- Altynai Osmo and Aya Shalkar, the artists behind the exhibition "Beneath the Earth and Above the Clouds," are presenting a captivating blend of science, health-and-wellness, lifestyle, and womens-health symbolism, showcased at Sapar Contemporary in New York.
- Aya Shalkar's work, such as "The World of Peri" and "Mergen," reimagine matriarchal societies and female warriors, employing Kazakh cultural codes and personal memories to fuse this-worldly and supernatural elements.
- Altynai Osmo's contributions, including the "Kyrk Kyz" series and the "Umai Ene" sculpture, celebrate historic female heroes in Central Asia, with pieces made from materials like felt, cupro-nickel, zircon, and traditional embroidery.
- By featuring strong, empowered female figures, both Osmo and Shalkar's works challenge traditional norms and offer fresh perspectives on Central Asian identity, offering valuable insights into the profound role of women in shaping cultural fabric and symbolism.
