Sam Shendi & Hormazd Narielwalla's exhibition in our concept store BARNES London

The duo exhibition of Egyptian born British artist Sam Shendi’s sculptures and Indian born British artist Hormazd Narielwalla’s collages is curated to create a space full of inspiration and serenity reminiscent of a Sacred Garden in its broadest sense. The space becomes a place of relaxation where one can regain new strength and be connected to the outside world. Stepping into it, an exotic journey begins and the playful interaction between Shendi’s sculptures and Narielwalla’s collage artworks unfold.

The two big stainless-steel sculptures United and Warrior II are standing opposite each other. In a highly stylised way, United depicts two long cylindrical figures that are unified with each other. The figure that is depicted from the side and painted in serious hues supports the other one that is frontally depicted and in vibrant colors, symbolizing mutual trust and respect. The sculpture Warrior II shows a long cylindrical human figure with a mask like head, protecting himself with a large magical looking shield that could embody the power of internal strength. Inspired by the radiant color palette of the African continent, the shadows of both sculptures evoke the idea of ancient spirits.

Behind Warrior II, the large enigmatic collage Remember Who You Are reflects the rays of light shining on it. Referring to the bible, the artwork depicts abstract representation of religious iconography by making use of antique sewing patterns. Usually constructed for the body, the artist utilized these antique drafts to depict the human form in eternal representation. Bold colors, geometrical forms and typical stripes seen in Russian orthodox iconography are used as references to construct the collage, highlighting the heavenly order. A silent dialogue unfolds between Remember Who You Are and a triptych collage vis-à-vis, consisting of The Beginning of the World, The Worshipper and The End of the World. The triptych shows an abstract figure in muted hues between two colorful bright circles.

On the right side under the triptych, a smaller stainless-steel sculpture in joyful colors is placed, called Instrument II, outlining the form of a brass instrument. Thinking of our Sacred Garden, an instrument could be part of the process of worshipping, be it to worship a certain God, nature or life generally. In a quieter part of this Sacred Garden, a large minimalistic stainless-steel sculpture is placed, called The Priest. The sculpture is all black, except for a vertical red stripe in the middle, referring to an African priest that is dressed in his clerical clothes, cherishing all the blessings of our Sacred Garden.

Are you interested in one of his works and want to know more about their history? Contact Emmanuel BOURGERIE, art consultant.