The exhibition “Interior View SOUTHEAST” examines the form and identity of Islamic prayer and cultural spaces that are commonly hidden from public view. The show provides an overview of the history of the architecture of mosques and demonstrates current trends and conceptual formulations. Asking artists to confront the theme of the agglomeration and interaction of cultural symbols, “Interior View SOUTHEAST” questions the established forms of representations of Islamic identity in an urban context, stimulating a discussion about them that would go beyond the predominant debates that are marked by stereotypes.

A white textile structure derived from the Islamic muqarnas, a traditional decorative corbel element used in mosques. The Einheit Muqarnas is sited in the neo-Gothic archway of the exhibition entryway, signaling a dialogue of materials and form and highlighting the interplay of apparently contradictory architectonic and cultural elements. The installation lightens what is traditionally a heavy form by use of translucent textile in place of tile, while negotiating a geometric transformation of square to dome.

Project team: Joel Lamere, Azra Aksamija, Tara Ebsworth, Ewald Elmecker, Parents of Azra Aksamija