Sanad Sherif, known as Nad, recently concluded his debut solo show, Temporal Alchemy, at Kamene Art Residency in Nairobi. This marked the end of his two-month-long residency at Kamene Center in collaboration with the Rest Residency team. The exhibition, curated by Larissa-Diana Fuhrmann, addressed mental health issues faced by individuals directly affected by war. It resonated deeply with the city’s diverse population, drawing significant attention and engagement.
Sanad’s artistic journey began at a young age when he shared studio moments with his father. His work is characterized by various mediums, colors, and perspectives that seamlessly illustrate the connections between the world and its impact. Examining his work, a transformative and transient motif reflects an evolving muse in new surroundings. His subjects come alive through sculpture, showcasing the daunting and natural aspects of the war in one room. Each artwork is a portal into Sannad’s inner world, where memories, emotions, and profound reflections intertwine in a mesmerizing dance of perpetual metamorphosis.
The exhibition opens with pieces themed around “glitches,” symbolizing the disorientation experienced in the face of war. As the exhibition progresses, the subjects are seemingly comforted by a new and different world.
In his words, the artist explains:
“Capturing the essence of my artwork is a reflective process, especially with pieces created during the war. On a day filled with loud noises, my friend and I went to the streets, face covers on, searching for the perfect backdrop that mirrored the destruction in my neighborhood. Passing army checkpoints, concealing my face sparked inquiries—a daunting task to explain the symbolic journey I was about to undertake. Filled with fear and trepidation, this photographic endeavor became a testament to art in adversity.”
Sanad’s work not only documents the devastation of war but also captures the resilience and transformation of those affected. By portraying the emotional and psychological impacts, he invites viewers to empathize with the experiences of individuals in war-torn regions. His use of different mediums, including sculpture, adds depth and dimension to the narrative, making each piece a powerful statement on the human condition.
In “Temporal Alchemy,” Nad creates a space where art becomes a means of survival and resistance. The exhibition is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who endure war trials, offering a glimpse into their journey from turmoil to a semblance of peace. Through his work, Nad continues to explore the complex interplay between trauma and healing, impacting all who experience his art.
Click here to view his works.
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