In the heart of Tbilisi, the Window Project gallery’s latest exhibition, ‘Change—Part Two,’ offers an intricate tableau of Georgia’s recent history through the lens of contemporary art. Spanning works from 1989 to 2024, this group exhibition encapsulates the nation’s journey through political upheavals, social transformations, and cultural rebirths, all while reflecting the resilience and dynamism of its people. The exhibition is open to the public until September 20, 2024.
A Historical Tapestry: Georgia’s Path to Modernity
The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the dawn of a new era for Georgia, a country that would soon find itself grappling with wars, territorial occupations, and political turmoil. These seismic events have left an indelible mark on the nation’s collective consciousness, a theme that reverberates through the artworks on display. The exhibition serves as a visual chronicle of these times, portraying the ceaseless quest for sovereignty and self-determination.
At its core, ‘Change—Part Two’ urges viewers to reexamine Georgia’s past and present critically. The artists engage in demythologizing historical narratives, challenging established perspectives, and fostering a deeper understanding of the country’s multifaceted identity. This intellectual endeavor is crucial for a society in flux, striving to reconcile its heritage with contemporary realities.
The exhibition does not shy away from the pressing issues of human rights and individual freedoms. Through their works, artists underscore the importance of civic engagement and the defense of democratic values. The portrayal of personal responsibility in shaping public discourse resonates strongly, especially in a landscape marked by political instability.
Artistic Expressions: A Symphony of Media and Generations
The diversity of media, ranging from painting and sculpture to photography, video art, and installations, enriches the narrative tapestry of the exhibition. Each medium provides a unique vantage point, collectively offering a comprehensive exploration of the themes at hand.
By featuring artists from various generations, the exhibition fosters a dialogue between the past and the present. This intergenerational exchange highlights the continuity and evolution of artistic practices and ideas, demonstrating how contemporary artists build upon and respond to the legacies of their predecessors.
Spotlight on Artists: Voices of Change
With a penchant for the provocative, the works of Andro Dadiani, Irakli Rusadze, and Giorgi Gagoshidze delve into themes of power, identity, and social justice. Their art challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and engage with complex socio-political issues. The fusion of performance and social intervention blurs the lines between art and life, urging a reconsideration of conventional boundaries. Their pieces juxtapose historical and contemporary experiences, creating a compelling dialogue between different eras and inviting reflection on collective memory.
Erekle Getsadze, Mariam Mzesu Giunashvili, Shotiko Aptsiauri, Vakhtang Kokiashvili, Nika Machaidze, and Koka Ramishvili offer personal yet universally resonant perspectives on the human condition, exploring identity and nature. Their work provides a nuanced lens through which to view contemporary Georgian protest, capturing the quotidian struggles of Georgian people and grounding the exhibition in real-world experiences and emotions of corruption and betrayal. Their art challenges perceptions of time and space, explores the intersection of technology and human experience, and emphasizes themes of freedom and resistance. Often inviting viewer participation, they highlight the active role of artists in shaping society, and offer a metaphysical exploration of existence, inviting contemplation and introspection amidst the exhibition’s more politically charged pieces.
Gvantsa Jishkariani, Dato Koridze, Sandro Sulaberidze x Guram Tsibakhashvili, Uta Bekaia, and Tamara K.E. explore themes of memory and transformation, creating tactile connections to the past. Their vibrant works reflect on Georgia’s cultural heritage, blending traditional motifs with contemporary artistic styles. Drawing on their backgrounds in fashion and design, they explore identity, gender, and the body with visual and conceptual sophistication. Their art addresses themes of language and perception, encouraging viewers to question their assumptions and engage with new perspectives.
A Nation in Flux, Captured in Art
‘Change—Part Two’ at Window Project is not just an exhibition; it is a vivid exploration of Georgia’s contemporary soul. By bringing together a diverse array of artistic voices and media, the exhibition paints a complex and nuanced picture of a nation navigating its way through profound transformations. It challenges viewers to rethink their understanding of Georgia’s past and present, emphasizing the vital role of art in shaping a resilient and forward-looking society.
Window Project Gallery, 9 Erekle Tatishvili St, Tbilisi. Open daily except Mondays, 12pm – 7pm.
By Ivan Nechaev
