DOHA: Katara recently opened an exhibition by Iranian-American artist, Eric Parnes titled “I dream of Jeannie” at Katara Gallery, Building 19.
The artist uses a variety of media including mixed media objects and sculptures, paintings, video installations, photography, and unique materials which incorporate internationally-known logos and corporate symbols reflecting an evolving landscape of globalisation.
Parnes has been praised for his exploration of Oriental imagery in both the West and the East.
Sa’id Costa, Curator of Visual Arts Exhibitions and Educational Programs said: “We are delighted to collaborate with such a talented young artist on this occasion. Eric Parnes’ work resonates with audiences in the Middle East; his work represents the challenges youth from a multi-cultural background face. His pieces capture modernism with an arabesque twist, producing a colourful, and eye catching array of works. Katara is committed to providing a platform for world class artists such as Eric Parnes, this exhibition is a testament of our commitment to educating and entertaining whilst building cultural bridges.”
Parnes has successfully coined and trademarked the term “Neo-Orientalism” which he uses to refer to his individual style of art: “Neo Orientalism”, a term that seeks to explore a specific notation of aesthetic exchange between the East and the West within the framework of popular culture. Abbreviating the complex philosophy behind the artistic science, Neo Orientalism is about appropriating and examining both sides of the equation.
“As an artist who has always been fascinated by the imagery and meaning behind the folklore, customs and culture of my familial ancestry, I continue to discover and understand the Middle East’s tremendous influence on the human experience, and the Western world’s response in absorbing and translating these resources,” he said.
The Peninsula
