Exhibitions concept

Life of A Box

The Museum of Papermaking in Duszniki-Zdrój is a site with a unique heritage, aspiring to be included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. As the sole preserved and operational establishment of its kind in Poland, and one of the few in Europe, the museum has been dedicated to promoting eco-friendly attitudes for many years. It organizes various initiatives, including educational exhibitions such as “Maphology – raw material of the 21st century” and the annual Paper Festival. The exhibition titled “Life of a Box” aligns seamlessly with the museum’s mission, demonstrating that art can embody not only beauty but also responsibility. It serves as a platform for contemplation and discussion regarding environmental protection, sustainable development, climate change, and biodiversity.

Artist Hesham Malik embraces the sustainability trend and is actively involved in shaping its future direction. The unique initiative, “Life of a Box,” which he established in 2000, offers a transformative perspective on the upcycling of recyclable materials through an educational art project.

Hesham proposes that art can take an alternative route – one that not only reduces environmental harm but also fosters cultural transformation. In the context of the “Life of a Box” exhibition, discarded cartons – which may appear to be worthless waste – are converted into distinctive pieces of art. The artist demonstrates that recycling can not only diminish waste, safeguard natural resources, and lower greenhouse gas emissions, but it can also serve as a source of inspiration and convey significant artistic messages.

He is recognized for addressing social and spiritual issues, and his endeavors frequently fulfill charitable and educational objectives. “Life of a Box” is yet another initiative where Malik employs art as a means for transformation and raising awareness.

A Dialogue in Timelessness on the Canvases of Two Icons of Contemporary Art

In the „Samay“ exhibition, artist Hesham Malik and Goa, India-based artist Mohan Naik present their works. Both artists bring their unique perspectives on time and life, which merge into a multifaceted dialogue on the canvases. Mohan Naik brings childhood memories from Goa to life through idyllic depictions of villagers. His works are finely detailed, with distinctive black outlines on a sharp white background that emphasize the connection between humans and nature.

In contrast, Hesham Malik explores the cultural understanding of life and its mutable aspects. His work focuses on the everyday life of human existence, which he analyzes and processes with unique depth. Malik’s works offer contrasts and subtle similarities, allowing the viewer to perceive various aspects of human existence.

The connection between these two different artistic approaches creates a symbiotic whole, where individual boundaries blur and ambiguous spatial relationships arise. The canvas becomes the place where reality and fiction merge into timeless narratives. The viewer is encouraged to actively engage—constructing and deconstructing complex visual structures, making them part of the artistic process.

Both artists‘ main goal was to involve the intellect and imagination of the viewer. Instead of finely distinguishing forms, they focused on the tension in the relationships between figures and space—on their stability and instability, concreteness and incomprehensibility, genesis and inevitable decay. The „Samay“ exhibition is a bold artistic endeavor that transcends cultural boundaries, creating space for deep reflection on time, life, and our ability to seek harmony in a world full of contrasts.

The „Samay“ exhibition opened at the Králíky City Museum under the leadership of Michal Kos and will then be presented at the Carpe Diem Gallery in Goa under the patronage of Daegal Godinho. This project not only creates a cultural connection between two distinct regions but also makes a unique contribution to enriching the art communities of both countries. Its ambitions and messages are undeniable, and we look forward to the resonance it will evoke in the viewers.

Kemet

The name of the exhibition comes from the ancient name of the land of the Egyptians. “Kemet” literally “black land”. The word “kem” means “black” in ancient Egyptian.

Art and history enthusiasts were able to delve into the legends and truths of ancient Egypt, a realm ruled by pharaohs and inhabited by slaves. Through this endeavor, Hesham, the curator of the exhibition, aimed to demonstrate how the enduring artistic ingenuity of the past can transcend time and resonate with contemporary audiences.

Hesham’s art pieces, ranging from paintings to wooden sculptures and antiques, showcased the splendor of ancient Egypt through the intricate details of jewelry. The Karlovy Vary museum visitors were able to immerse themselves in Egyptian history by admiring the modern aesthetic and beauty ideals portrayed in the artist’s creations.

The thematic arrangement of the exposition focused on various topics rather than following a chronological order. These topics encompassed pharaohs and the daily lives of people during ancient Egyptian civilization, the significance of design and color in guiding Egyptian lives, and the efforts made to ensure the preservation of their legacy for future generations.

Indian Mythology and Heroes

Indian mythology encompasses the comprehensive tales that underlie the world’s third-largest religion. Hinduism, which vies for the title of the oldest religion in the world, has had a profound influence on the earliest civilizations on Earth. The creatures found in Hindu mythology encompass a wide array of beings, ranging from legendary vahanas to entire species. Within the sacred narratives, one can find accounts of nature spirits and malevolent demons, as well as stories featuring sea monsters and dragons.

The Regional museum of Most hosted the “Hidden Secrets” exhibition, which displayed a diverse range of artworks exploring the rich cultural heritage of India. Hesham Malik, the artist, skillfully presented a unique blend of abstract and figurative interpretations, weaving captivating stories from Indian mythology and delving into the intricate narratives of Indian life, culture, and traditions. This seamless fusion of artistic styles created an enchanting ambiance that mesmerized visitors and evoked a profound sense of awe.

Mizpah – Stories of Jewish families in Havlíčková Brod.

The exhibition’s title originated from Hebrew (מִצְפָּה miṣpāh, mitspah) and symbolizes the profound emotional bond shared by two individuals, particularly when they are separated by significant physical distance or even by death. Additionally, it also alludes to a heap of stones, which was traditionally erected as a symbol of a covenant between two individuals, with God serving as their vigilant observer (Genesis 31:44-54).

Furthermore, the word “mizpah” is commonly associated with a cemetery. Each gravestone in the Jewish cemetery in Havlíčkův Brod holds a unique story. While some stories are known to us, others will forever remain a mystery. Some inscriptions honor the deceased, while others offer solace to the grieving through prayers. The “MIZPAH” exhibition aims to bridge the gap between the community and these narratives, shedding light on the history of the Jewish community in Havlíčkův Brod during the tragic events of the Holocaust. A part of the exhibition was dedicated to the Jewish families of Havlíčková Brod, focusing on three prominent families – the Mahlers, the Pachners, and the Turnovskás.

Alongside the exhibition, students from schools actively participated in Hesham’s worldwide initiative called “Incomplete”. This global project has been ongoing since 2021. “Incomplete” is a straightforward project in which students examine a painting and jot down the initial word that comes to their mind. Once the artist gathers all the words, a description is formulated for the painting. This description serves as a comprehensive summary of all the words provided by the school students who have shared their thoughts on the artwork.

An homage to the esteemed Max Švabinský hailing from Kroměříž, accompanied by the outcomes of an educational initiative targeting students of Kroměříž.

GESTURE

A comprehensive exhibition replete with sentiments, romance, and mythical love associations originating from diverse regions across the globe.

18

African Kuumba: Exploring the Ancestral Connections

The Dobrošov Fortress, which was first established in 1938, served as a protective stronghold against the Nazi forces. In 1968, it was opened to the public, and in the year 2022, it was the site of the “Make Art Not War” initiative.

Following a comprehensive three-year reconstruction, alongside the architectural transformation of the edifice, visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a distinctive collection of “Make Art Not War” exhibitions by the esteemed artist, Hesham Malik. As they traverse the tourist circuit surrounding the fortress, they will encounter three art exhibitions entitled “Ethereal,” “Raw,” and “Bitye.”

The fort’s authentic ambiance, coupled with its unrefined integration with the earth, resonates and radiates through the vibrant and emotive works on display. The paintings showcased in the Ethereal and Bitye exhibitions are complemented by raw wooden artworks that seamlessly merge visual and sculptural art.

The world serves as a stage where we all play a part in a collective narrative. However, the distinction lies in how time alters both our surroundings and ourselves. There was a period when tribes sought refuge in caves and mountains, transforming these unique locales into cultural communities where knowledge was cultivated and transmitted. It is within these extraordinary spaces that some of the earliest weapons in human history were discovered and crafted. Furthermore, caves served as the initial galleries and museums, preserving art for future generations.

Renowned for his ability to accompany his paintings with compelling narratives, the artist has chosen to allow the art to speak for itself on this occasion. The grand opening of the fortress and the exhibition was on May 3rd and the exhibitions were available for viewing until October 16, 2022.

Rattlesnake Ukiyo is in search of the celestial beings and malevolent entities that reside within the current juncture.

The esteemed artist, Hesham Malik, shall embark upon a quest to explore the myriad countenances of our personal demons and celestial beings within the confines of the City Museum of Chrast. This museum, renowned as the abode of the Czech Republic’s most enigmatic literary tome, hosted three distinct exhibitions showcasing the works of this talented artist from May – September, 2022.

The manuscript book known as the “Devil’s Bible,” or Kodex gigas, holds the distinction of being the largest in the world. It is believed to have been written in the early 13th century at the monastery in Podlažice near Chrudim. The author’s intention was to condense all knowledge into a single work. According to legend, one of the monastery’s monks was assigned the task of writing the book as a punishment for his sins. He was expected to complete it in a single night, and with the assistance of the devil, to whom he had pledged his soul, he managed to accomplish this seemingly impossible feat.

The book gained notoriety primarily due to its depiction of the devil, which occupies an unconventional space within its pages. A copy of this manuscript can still be viewed in Chrast.

Hesham Malik curated a series of three exhibitions for the Museum in Chrast, drawing inspiration from the history of not only the Chrudim region, but also beyond. Through his ethnographically descriptive approach, the artist explores the origins of images and the mythology surrounding spiritual beings, including angels and the devil.

Malik’s exploration of these beings extends beyond the past and into the present moment. The exhibition’s title, Ukiyo, alludes to the concept of living in the present moment, detached from the burdens of life. By relinquishing attachment to established forms and programs, one can separate oneself from problems and worries, thereby accessing a rich inner experience. This philosophy perfectly encapsulates the abstract figurative art of Ukiyo, which Malik aims to present as a refreshing and inspiring experience for visitors.

The Regional Museum of Prague-East was adorned with depictions portraying the momentous event of the Liberation.

The artist Hesham Malik commenced his artistic endeavors within the confines of the Memorial of National Oppression and Resistance located in Panenské Břežany. Through this creative pursuit, we are transported back to the inception of the year 2020, a period marked by the imposition of initial lockdown measures, compelling individuals to retreat within the confines of their homes.

The artist’s initial foray into canvas painting did not take place in the comfort of his own home, but rather within museums and cultural institutions that graciously opened their doors to him during these trying times. Additionally, he engaged in conversations with individuals he encountered while traversing the desolate streets of Prague East.

The artist firmly believes that a sense of community is fostered through shared experiences, particularly during periods of adversity. His creative inspiration is derived from the collective experiences of individuals residing in and around urban areas, and is manifested through the use of color and abstract forms.

Through his research-based artistic practice, he endeavors to develop novel approaches to painting that are in harmony with both the environment and society, through the principles of collectivism and personal experience.

The artist believes that our future imaginings must encompass more than just the individual human being, but rather something that transcends humanity itself. This “something” is comprised of the myriad interconnections between human existence and both living and non-living entities.

In his exhibited works, the artist draws upon his own experiences, wherein the condition of “otherness” serves as a radical prerequisite for political possibility.

The perception of gold and civilization as observed by an artist within the confines of the regional museum in Jilové, situated in close proximity to Prague.

The exhibition entitled “Zlato / Gold” was curated by the esteemed artist, Hesham Malik. Through his own paintings, which are over two decades old, he beckons the audience to embark on a journey tracing the history of gold across various epochs and civilizations of our society.

In addition to the aesthetically pleasing artwork, the observer is afforded the opportunity to acquaint themselves with the historical significance of gold throughout various eras and its multifaceted uses. The exhibition features not only golden paintings, but also captivating narratives intended to inform and educate.

Connoisseurs of art who appreciate Hesham’s paintings experience a sense of liberation and inspiration that resonates with them. The artist has chosen to showcase his work in a museum in the Czech Republic that specializes in gold.

“I am pleased that Hesham Malik has chosen to exhibit his work at the Regional Museum of Jílové, which is dedicated to the history and processing of gold. This has resulted in a symbolic connection between the “golden” past and contemporary art. Hesham Malik’s paintings offer a fresh perspective on how this precious metal can be utilized artistically, educationally, and narratively,” remarks museum director Šárka Juřinová.

Captivated by the rich history encountered at the City Gallery of Vysoke Myto

In the exhibition titled “Reminiscence,” Hesham Malik meticulously charts his artistic creations while embarking on a quest to unravel the essence of dark history within his paintings.

The idea behind “Reminiscence” was inspired by the continuous ebb and flow of life, fluctuating between hope and despair. This exhibition explored dark histories and unfulfilled desires. Its central theme reflected the existential notion that true acceptance of life is achieved only after recognizing its fleeting nature and inherent disorder.

“Reminiscence” centered on the universal themes of Loss and suffering. It illustrated how people navigate through it. It raised questions such as: What exists beyond loss? Can pain be transformed into a meaningful experience that enables us to shift difficult circumstances into a more positive outlook? On the other hand, there exists a form of pain that appears insurmountable, such as torture or trauma. Despite these significant obstacles, numerous individuals succeed in leading meaningful lives.

Hesham posits that loss, akin to art, is a deeply personal experience that can exert both physical and psychological effects. Thus, the main aim is to present artistic viewpoints that provoke an immediate emotional response from viewers, engaging their capacity for empathy. Whether through visual components or the stories conveyed within the artwork, this fosters a sense of ambiguity where aesthetic and physical or emotional experiences converge.

The displayed artworks provide a critical perspective on issues such as war, authority, and avarice. By blending human forms with inanimate objects, these pieces are accompanied by vivid narratives. Through meticulous examination, the exhibition addresses the enduring effects of the past on the present, as artist Hesham investigates the emotional repercussions and traumas resulting from human actions.

Crucially, “Reminiscence” not only highlights the narrative of loss and suffering but also that of the Holocaust through the Jewish families of Vysoke Myto, underscoring the profound human cost of genocide through artistic expression and sculptures, offering insight into one of the most tragic episodes in contemporary history.