Arabi / Gharbi
Neon installation,
217.2 x 96.7 cm
Variation 1/32016
By expanding on the very language that is used to identify an Arab from a Non-Arab, the work highlights the minor differences that have continuously altered, shaped and perplexed the narrative of self-identification in the region. And in today’s world of constant cultural and social exchange, blending, assimilation, and even appropriation, we find ourselves asking: What makes an Arab an Arab? What are the differences beyond the surface of a language?
The broad depth and complexity of the term Arab and Western/Non-Arab oscillates back and forth with each flicker of the dot. In one way, the swapping motion between both terms suggests that in this day and age, the term Arabi (Arab) can’t exist without its counterpart; fusing both terms into a single body, and indicating that in our contemporary world, a “pure” Arab may no longer exist. On the other hand, there is a moment of pause, when Arabi (Arab) is frozen, asserting its prominence; striking a beam that is worthy of its heritage and values - an almost nationalistic badge it proudly wears. This stance plays homage to its Arab roots, a nostalgic moment that prompts the revival and perseverance of an inimitable identity that is threatened by the other, and in this way has deeply saddened the artist.
The dot is notably the differentiating linguistic “point” – literally - between these two terms; an ironic coincidence: as the dot never existed in the origins of the Arabic written language. In the past, both words were visually similar. The homographic formation of the word could be read either way, and only distinguished through context.
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