Welcome to the ‘Sediment’ Exhibition!
Mark your calendars, art lovers! From November 15, 2024, to February 8, 2025, the Center for Contemporary Art in Graz, Styria, will host the thought-provoking exhibition titled ‘Sediment’. Now, if you think this is just an art exhibit about rocks—you might be a bit off the mark. Didn’t we all learn that sediment is just the stuff left over when life gets chaotic? Like my last relationship!
Curatorial Genius at Work
This exhibition is the inaugural project in a series curated by none other than the dynamic duo, Dicle Bestas and Basak Senova. Their curatorial research borrows heavily from the archives of Loading, a non-profit art space that’s got its heart set firmly in Diyarbakir, Turkey. I suppose when you’re sifting through so much history, collecting sediment is more an art of curation than just a geologist’s mishap!
Right in the Thick of It
Now, let’s get to the meat of the matter… or should I say sediment? This project not only showcases the vibrant local art scene but digs into the socio-political issues that really make society tick—like how a stubborn clog in your sink drives you to madness. Here, the works collected stem from female artists—strong, fierce women offering their perspectives, which is a refreshing change from the oft male-dominated narratives. Who says women can’t make a bigger splash than just making waves in the kitchen?
The Artists Join the Fray
This exhibition doesn’t just showcase art from the archives; it also features a fantastic lineup of artists that represents the essence of connection between Graz and Skopje! Featured artists include:
- Rozelin Akgün
- Hristina Ivanoska
- Leyla Keskin
- Aylin Kizil
- Barbara Schmid
- Rojda Tugrul
Impressive, right? These brave souls are set to explore topical themes such as ecological crises, socio-political upheavals, and the ever-elusive concept that art can change the world—presumably taking us from the mundane to the absurd; like switching your dad’s preferred radio station from classic rock to avant-garde jazz!
Location, Location, Location!
You can check out this art extravaganza at:
Center for Contemporary ArtVolksgartenstraße 6a
8020 Graz, Styria
www.rotor.mur.at
So, What’s the Bottom Line?
As we approach the opening of ‘Sediment’, we can expect not just a pretty gallery filled with artwork but a deeply engaging examination of the layers of society: like peeling an onion and crying about your current life choices. It’s art with purpose, and if it doesn’t move you, well, perhaps you’ve just become part of the sediment yourself!
In a world awash with distractions, let’s take a moment to celebrate the women’s voices resonating through art, societal reflection, and the innovation they bring to the table. Or should I say, the gallery? You don’t want to miss this opportunity to engage with art that might just lead you to rethink your sedimentary existence!
15.11.2024 – 21.12.2024 & 07.01.2025 – 08.02.2025
Sediment represents a groundbreaking inaugural exhibition in a new series featuring carefully selected guest curators. The event is under the insightful direction of Dicle Bestas and Basak Senova, who meticulously curated the exhibit to engage with pressing socio-political, ecological, and economic issues that shape our contemporary environment. Their research began with a deep dive into the archives of Loading, a non-profit art space renowned for its focus on Diyarbakir and its surrounding regions in south-eastern Turkey. This archive offers a rich, multi-dimensional perspective on the vibrant local art scene as well as the complex socio-political and ecological challenges faced by the Kurdish populations in these areas. Notably, the project highlights the significant contributions of female artists, reflecting a passionate engagement with the themes at hand. The resulting exhibition uniquely intertwines works from this extensive archive with those of two exceptional female artists hailing from Graz and Skopje. It spans significant locations that hold historical and ecological importance, such as the Hevsel Gardens in the Tigris Basin, the ancient city of Hasankeyf, as well as the scenic rivers Vardar and Mur.
Participating artists include: Rozelin Akgün, Hristina Ivanoska, Leyla Keskin, Aylin Kizil, Barbara Schmid, and Rojda Tugrul.
Sediment
15.11.2024 – 21.12.2024 & 07.01.2025 – 08.02.2025
– Center for Contemporary Art
Volksgartenstraße 6a
8020 Graz, Styria
www.rotor.mur.at
**Interview with Dicle Bestas: Co-Curator of the ‘Sediment’ Exhibition**
**Editor:** Welcome, Dicle! We’re thrilled to have you here to talk about the upcoming ‘Sediment’ exhibition at the Center for Contemporary Art in Graz. Can you tell us what inspired the concept behind this exhibition?
**Dicle Bestas:** Thank you for having me! The concept of ‘Sediment’ emerged as a way to explore the layers of history, culture, and societal issues. We wanted to create a space where the ‘leftovers’ of our experiences—like sediment—can reveal deeper truths about who we are. Just like in nature, these layers can tell intense stories that evoke both chaos and beauty.
**Editor:** That’s a fascinating perspective! How did you and Basak Senova decide on highlighting the works of female artists for this exhibition?
**Dicle Bestas:** Basak and I are passionate about amplifying diverse voices, especially those that often go unheard. By focusing on female artists, we aim to challenge the traditional narratives that dominate the art world. Their perspectives offer insightful reflections on the socio-political challenges we face, which is critical for creating a well-rounded understanding of society today.
**Editor:** The roster of artists featured in the exhibition is impressive! How did you select artists like Rozelin Akgün and Hristina Ivanoska?
**Dicle Bestas:** We chose artists based not only on their individual talents but also on how well they resonate with the themes of the exhibition. Their works address pressing global issues—from ecological crises to personal experiences—that connect back to the underlying themes of sedimentation in a societal context. We wanted to create an inclusive dialogue that links Graz with Skopje and beyond.
**Editor:** It sounds like viewers can expect a deeply engaging experience. Can you share what you hope the audience will take away from their visit?
**Dicle Bestas:** Ultimately, I hope visitors leave with a renewed sense of connection—to the art, to the stories being told, and to each other. ‘Sediment’ is designed not just to be visually striking but also to provoke thought and reflection. We want people to consider how they are part of the ongoing narrative and perhaps even challenge their perceptions of art’s role in society.
**Editor:** That’s wonderful! as we get closer to the opening on November 15, what would you say to those who might be hesitant to visit an art exhibition?
**Dicle Bestas:** I would encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zones! Art is for everyone and has the power to inspire, provoke, and heal. ‘Sediment’ promises to be an exciting exploration of societal layers through a women’s lens. Even if you don’t typically engage with art, this exhibit might just resonate with you in unexpected ways. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
**Editor:** Thank you, Dicle! We’re looking forward to experiencing ‘Sediment’ and the powerful dialogues it will evoke.
**Dicle Bestas:** Thank you for the opportunity to share about our exhibition! See you all there!
