Internationally acclaimed visual artist Y.Z. Kami speaks with Guggenheim Abu Dhabi

23 Oct, 2020

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi welcomed internationally acclaimed artist Y.Z. Kami for a fascinating virtual conversation on 20 October as part of its ongoing ‘Waiting for the Future’ series, which aims to provide audiences with opportunities for human connection and reflection. Attracting an audience from across the region and around the world, the session was streamed live on Abu Dhabi Culture’s YouTube channel and can be viewed again online here.

Using Kami’s piece Endless Prayers XIII (2008) as reference, the discussion between the artist and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Curator, Sasha Kalter-Wasserman, explored the multi-layered references to sacred text and religious architecture which are inherent in his work, providing deeper insight into Kami’s artistic approach.

A contemplative exploration of the aesthetics of geometric form and Sufi meditative practices, Kami’s work previously featured in Guggenheim Abu Dhabi’s Seeing Through Light: Selections from the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Collection (2014) exhibition.

When asked about his reflections during a lockdown period spent in the countryside, Kami explained, “I don’t want to be completely disconnected with the life of the city. You know, the whole world has changed, it is a very introspective moment. It is a time to be in here rather than out there.” The artist highlighted the commonality behind the effects of the pandemic on humanity, stating that its influence on his work will be evident much later. He noted that he looks forward to the future, to a time of contemplation and observation as to how these global issues and their aftermath will shape his work. Kami shared that during these turbulent times, his constant inspiration is life, expressing “I love life and that’s it.”

The ‘Waiting for the Future’ series seeks to encourage a deeper understanding of cultural heritage and the arts and provide a platform for creativity and knowledge sharing. The programme reflects Guggenheim Abu Dhabi’s mission as a driver of intellectual and cultural dialogue, and its commitment to working with artists to support contemporary creative practices.
The next and final instalment in the ‘Waiting for the Future’ series will feature artists Selma and Sofiane Ouissi, streaming on the Abu Dhabi Culture YouTube channel on 24 November at 7pm GST.