Heart Mahal

Heart Mahal was exhibited in the 'Container 96' held in Copenhagen. This work was the product of a collaborative effort between three artists who had previously identified as sculptors, Durriya Kazi, David Alesworth and Elizabeth Dadi, and Iftikhar Dadi, an artist known for his works created with photography and the computer, working with a team of craftsmen. These specialist craftsmen used their skills at lighting, steel panel work and painting to build the work from the ideas and drawings made by the four artists. The entrance decorated with vivid paintings is dimly lit, and once the viewer enters the work, a heart-shaped electric light blasts out directly in front of the viewer. The inside of the container is dazzling with lights reflected off of its lining of steel panels. The side panels of steel are decorated with flower patterns and motifs from everyday life – irons, shoes, and even Mickey Mouse. This space is at once lively and fun, and yet also evokes a sense of solemnity. The artists have created a temple, one that seeks to remove the barrier between art and popular culture. (YY)