Min Wain?
Diasporic Identity Art Exhibition at Riwaq Art Space“Min Wain?” is a compelling diasporic identity art exhibition created during my residency at Riwaq Art Space, exploring the complex cultural narratives of Desi Khaleeji art and belonging in the Middle East. This mixed media installation delves into themes of identity, displacement, and the ever-evolving concept of home for diasporic communities in the Gulf region.
Exploring Diasporic Identity Through Mixed Media
The centerpiece of this mixed media installation is a striking 32-grid artwork composed of binary elements—1s, 0s, and question marks—that symbolizes the rigid perception of belonging experienced by Desi Khaleeji communities. Citizens are represented by 1s, non-citizens by 0s, and the ambiguous status of diasporic individuals by question marks. Strategically arranged to spell “HOME” in binary code, this diasporic identity art piece invites viewers to contemplate roots and embracing new identities.
Multilingual Soundscape and Cultural Dialogue
Complementing the visual installation is an immersive video component where voices converge in English, Urdu, and Arabic, each questioning the essence of belonging. This auditory layering evokes the internal conflict faced by Desi Khaleeji diasporic communities, reflecting the overlapping yet distinct layers of identity that characterize contemporary diasporic identity art.
Residency at Al Riwaq Art Space, Bahrain
This exhibition was developed during my participation in the prestigious Riwaq Art Space artist residency program in Bahrain. Riwaq Art Space, established in 1998, has been at the forefront of Bahrain’s contemporary art scene, providing a platform for regional and international artists to explore cultural intersections and develop their practice. The residency program offers mentorship, studio access, and opportunities for critical dialogue—essential elements that informed the development of this mixed media installation.
Challenging Conventional Views on Identity
“Min Wain?” challenges traditional perceptions of identity and belonging, creating a space for reflection and dialogue within the Desi Khaleeji art context. The exhibition highlights the voices of those who straddle multiple worlds yet find themselves in a state of liminality, a common experience among South Asian diaspora communities in the Gulf region.
Exhibition Documentation
The exhibition includes comprehensive documentation through photography and video, capturing both the mixed media installation components and visitor interactions. This documentation serves to extend the reach of this diasporic identity art project beyond the physical exhibition space at Al Riwaq Art Space.
