Saeed Hani has been selected as the artist from Luxembourg by Trois C-L for the Réseau Grand Luxe network. As a result, our new project, "Unveiling the Abstract," began its journey at the Grand Studio in Brussels, Belgium. It will continue its development at L'Abri in Geneva, Switzerland, the Teatro Municipal do Porto in Portugal, the POLE-SUD, CDCN in Strasbourg, France and Onassis Stegi in Athens, Greece. "Unveiling the Abstract" will premiere on October 24th at the Mierscher Theater in Luxembourg, with the German premiere on November 21st and 22nd at Europahalle in Trier. Additional performances will take place at the ArCA Theater in Luxembourg on December 5th and 6th.
photo: Bert Van Pelt
Unveiling the Abstract is a movement art project that combines movement, surrealism, visual art and nude art and is inspired by the teachings of Marcus Aurelius. His philosophy, which emphasises self-reflection and embracing the present moment, is resonated in the project and is evocative of his famous saying: "The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts". This recalls the surreal works of Salvador Dalí and the powerful evocation of Francisco Goya's "Saturn Devouring His Son", which emphasises human existence beyond conventional boundaries.
Goya's painting is at the centre of the project and invites reflection on hidden meanings and historical autocracies such as the Spanish state, the French Revolution and Napoleon's reign. This reflects Aurelius' belief that "the universe is change; our life is what our thoughts make of it" and invites the viewer to explore human experiences and realisations.
The project offers a visual and sensory spectacle that challenges traditional perceptions. Through abstract choreography, innovative lighting, multimedia elements and the interplay of the human form with surreal landscapes, "Unveiling the Abstract" dissolves the boundary between reality and fantasy. The nude art within the project explores human complexity and defies social norms by showing unvarnished vulnerability.
In 2024, against a backdrop of global political unrest, wars, hunger and racism, the project is becoming increasingly important. It addresses not only physical conflict but also the struggle for identity and acceptance, reflecting Marcus Aurelius' emphasis on inner strength, self-acceptance and resilience in the midst of external chaos.
Unveiling the Abstract" also addresses contemporary issues of acceptance and discrimination. It provides a platform to reflect on the importance of accepting different identities and the right to self-expression, recalling Aurelius' principle that true strength lies in understanding and accepting oneself and others. The project is a poignant reminder of the need for empathy and understanding in a world often divided by political and social conflict.
The essence of Marcus Aurelius' philosophy, characterised by introspection and present-moment awareness, permeates the project, giving it a surreal and dream-like quality. Through abstract forms and symbols, the audience is transported into a world where reality and the unconscious merge, inviting personal interpretation and emotional engagement.
As a Syrian artist who identifies as homosexual, my journey has been characterised by challenges and personal growth. In obscure art, I have found a means of expression that transcends conventional boundaries and allows me to communicate my struggles, my identity and my desires. This project embodies the complexity of existence and invites the viewer to engage with issues that would otherwise be met with resistance or incomprehension.
Unveiling the Abstract" is not just an art project, but a reflection on the human condition that bridges the gap between ancient philosophies and the struggles and hopes of the present. It demonstrates the continuing relevance of art and philosophy in our quest for understanding and connection. By engaging with this project, audiences embark on a journey of introspection, empathy and shared humanity that reflects the timeless wisdom of Marcus Aurelius in today's complex world.