Šejla Kamerić. Position Absolute

About

Personal belongings. We possess, we buy, collect, inherit. What is the meaning of all material objects that
surround us and which lost their practical use? Security... Memory... Fashion... Obsession... Evidence. - Šejla Kamerić

The central work of the exhibition Existence is a series of color photographs, which depict everyday objects marked with numbers in the style of crime scene photographs. The photograph itself is mounted on the left side of a paper spread – resembling old photo albums – and complemented by a description of the objects on the spread’s right side. The descriptions are written in manner of verses, creating a poem but following the strict order of the object’s numbering. The work brings together a rather scientific imagery with a poetic language; it interlinks fact and fiction, documentary and storytelling. It raises the question of how to measure the value of everyday objects, charged with personal as well as collective memories. How much are we as human beings dependent on personal belongings, memories and a ‘story‘ of ourselves, in which way do they contribute to our individual identity?

The second body of work in the exhibition, Position Absolute, is a collection of stone spheres with engraved grid coordinates, designating the sites of Bosnian war atrocities. The work refers to the mystic stone spheres that can be found worldwide, and especially in Bosnia. Although the myth says, their position is essential for the earth’s spiritual balance and should never be changed, most of them have been moved from their original location over time. By merging the mythic dimension of the story with the cold facts of the war, Kamerić creates a powerful symbol of remembrance.

Three cardboard boxes placed in the gallery space are titled Care 1, 2 & 3. One contains candles, some new others half burnt, the second is filled with expired food cans, and the third with old newspapers and magazines. Similar boxes were given as humanitarian aid to Bosnians during the war. The work is a direct response to the current refugee crisis. What are the real needs and how do we deal with apathy? How do we distribute our wealth or our possessions? What someone needs is very often a waste to others.

The proceeds from the sales of Care 1, 2 & 3 will be donated to humanitarian organizations for refugees.