Nafis
Nafis (2019) - Precast Concrete (1000 cm x 300 cm x 400 cm)
An art piece made for the Ministry of Culture’s 2019 exhibition From Within.
Identity can be seen as a larger concept tied to our shared beliefs, customs and history. Even with modernization, the majlis remained untouched.
This iconic seating element represents the relationship between a piece of furniture and our notion of identity and how shapes and patterns have the power to evoke a collective memory; where people from different generations can relate.
The Majlis has transcended from being a simple piece of furniture and has turned into an icon and symbol for community. Since conception, the style and shape remained the same, but the memories evoked by them are uniquely diverse.
The scale of the piece brings the patterns to the forefront; evoking memories of what made us who we have become today.
What will this mean for our future?
The patterns become symbols of our identity, and if left exposed, unprotected they will fade away.