Exploring Harlem and Beyond: Storytelling Through Found Object Art
Nari Ward, a Jamaican-born artist based in New York, is renowned for his impactful sculptural installations crafted from discarded materials found in his Harlem neighborhood. His works tackle complex social and political issues such as race, migration, democracy, and community. Ward’s art has been exhibited internationally, with significant shows at institutions like the New Museum in New York and the Pérez Art Museum Miami. An upcoming exhibition at Pirelli HangarBicocca in Milan will showcase Ward’s time-based media work and performative sculptures.
The exhibition at HangarBicocca will focus on performativity, featuring three large-scale installations originally designed as sets for choreographer-writer Ralph Lemon’s Geography Trilogy. Ward’s collaboration with Lemon underscores the importance of incorporating performance into his work. Through engaging with found objects, Ward creates spaces that invite viewers to contemplate narratives of resilience and hope amidst societal challenges.
Drawing inspiration from artists like Marcel Duchamp, Noah Purifoy, and Robert Rauschenberg, Ward’s use of found objects speaks to themes of resistance and storytelling. His artistic practice, deeply rooted in his Harlem upbringing, reflects on historical and political realities while infusing humor and redemption into his creations. Ward’s work blends elements of ritual and spirituality, evoking a sense of timelessness and ceremony in his assemblages.
Born in 1963 in St. Andrew, Jamaica, Ward received his education from Hunter College and Brooklyn College, City University of New York. He currently lives and works in Harlem. Represented by Lehmann Maupin and Galleria Continua, Ward has exhibited at prestigious venues like the Venice Biennale, Documenta 11, and the Whitney Biennial. His exhibition at Pirelli HangarBicocca promises to be a compelling exploration of his artistic practice.
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Naz Baydar graduated from Middle East Technical University with a degree in Product Design. She furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Art Direction at Elisava in Barcelona. Her work blends art direction, multimedia narratives, and design to craft innovative and transformative experiences. Naz is passionate about creating visual stories that evoke strong emotions and deliver meaningful impact. In addition to her work, she has a deep interest in philosophy and literature, which continuously inspire and enrich her creative process.