| 'These most recent works by Siavash Momeny explore the relationship between objects and sentimentality. The exhibition, entitled Still,Still Life, features compositions comprised of objects the artist has found in and around his environment. In most cases the items are discarded and for Momeny these paintings signify a reoccurring theme in his works; history and displacement and notions of value in art.
Momeny has continued his exploration of history and displacement by shifting focus to still life subjects that are no longer cared for. Compositionally the works are visually compelling depictions of otherwise rather distasteful subjects. Momeny asks the viewer to look beyond the everyday and questions the role of beauty. Beautiful compositions of trash are in themselves an interesting contrast, as the artist painstakingly reproduces intricate details of valueless objects, thus eliciting discussion regarding value and taste in art.
In past works Momeny painted personal objects. In this exhibition he shifts his focus to look at relics that once might have held some significance, great or small, for some unknown other. He asks what is the history behind these forgotten bits and pieces? Who owned them? Who cared for them? Once they were alive in the hands of their owner and though they are now lifeless one can still feel a sense of their past, or at least guess at it'.
Sadaf Lourie |
