THREADS OF EXTRACTION
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The jacquard woven throw presented in this exhibition reflects on the complex history of natural resource extraction, particularly gas and oil, in the Middle East.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
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Threads of Extraction: Reimagining Oriental Carpets in Postcolonial Endurance
The jacquard woven throw presented in this exhibition, titled "Threads of Extraction," serves as a reflection on the complex history of natural resource extraction, particularly gas and oil, in the Middle East region. Drawing inspiration from the visual language of traditional oriental carpets, this textile piece invites viewers to contemplate the lasting impact of colonialism and the enduring legacies of resource exploitation. In a region where the extraction of natural materials has played a significant role in shaping social, political, and economic dynamics, "Threads of Extraction" offers a unique lens through which to examine the intricacies of postcolonial endurance. Through the jacquard weaving technique, the throw embodies a juxtaposition of opulence and exploitation. Vibrant colours, intricate patterns reminiscent of traditional oriental carpets refer to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Yet, woven within these motifs are subtle reminders of the dark undercurrents of resource extraction—representations of gas pipelines, oil rigs, and the hidden costs of these industries as well as the conflicts sparkled by the competition for these natural resource. By appropriating the visual language of oriental carpets, the piece highlights the deep entanglement of historical and contemporary forces, inviting reflection on the enduring echoes of colonialism in the region.
Ultimately, this jacquard woven throw serves as a visual testament to the resilience and agency of communities impacted by resource extraction. It calls for a critical examination of the complex relationships between the global demand for natural resources, regional dynamics, and the pursuit of social and environmental justice in a postcolonial context.
The jacquard woven throw presented in this exhibition, titled "Threads of Extraction," serves as a reflection on the complex history of natural resource extraction, particularly gas and oil, in the Middle East region. Drawing inspiration from the visual language of traditional oriental carpets, this textile piece invites viewers to contemplate the lasting impact of colonialism and the enduring legacies of resource exploitation. In a region where the extraction of natural materials has played a significant role in shaping social, political, and economic dynamics, "Threads of Extraction" offers a unique lens through which to examine the intricacies of postcolonial endurance. Through the jacquard weaving technique, the throw embodies a juxtaposition of opulence and exploitation. Vibrant colours, intricate patterns reminiscent of traditional oriental carpets refer to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Yet, woven within these motifs are subtle reminders of the dark undercurrents of resource extraction—representations of gas pipelines, oil rigs, and the hidden costs of these industries as well as the conflicts sparkled by the competition for these natural resource. By appropriating the visual language of oriental carpets, the piece highlights the deep entanglement of historical and contemporary forces, inviting reflection on the enduring echoes of colonialism in the region.
Ultimately, this jacquard woven throw serves as a visual testament to the resilience and agency of communities impacted by resource extraction. It calls for a critical examination of the complex relationships between the global demand for natural resources, regional dynamics, and the pursuit of social and environmental justice in a postcolonial context.
Baku Azerbaijani "Chelyabi"
Two birds fighting
Simurghs throwА
RESEARCH
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The early history of crude oil extraction in Baku,
the capital of present-day Azerbaijan, could be seen as a precursor to the tensions and conflicts that later unfolded during the Cold War and continue to shape geopolitics today.
Baku's oil fields, which were among the most productive in the world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracted significant foreign investment and influence from major powers like Russia, Britain and USA.This influx of competing interests laid the groundwork for future conflicts over control of energy resources and spheres of influence in the region. The intense rivalry between the Soviet Union and Western powers over access to oil reserves and strategic positioning in areas like the Caucasus became a defining feature of the Cold War era. Even after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the legacy of these early oil disputes has continued to fuel tensions and conflicts in the region, with countries vying for control over energy resources and transit routes. The early struggles over Baku's oil wealth foreshadowed the importance of hydrocarbons in shaping modern geopolitical dynamics and underscore the enduring significance of energy security in contemporary international relations.
the capital of present-day Azerbaijan, could be seen as a precursor to the tensions and conflicts that later unfolded during the Cold War and continue to shape geopolitics today.
Baku's oil fields, which were among the most productive in the world in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracted significant foreign investment and influence from major powers like Russia, Britain and USA.This influx of competing interests laid the groundwork for future conflicts over control of energy resources and spheres of influence in the region. The intense rivalry between the Soviet Union and Western powers over access to oil reserves and strategic positioning in areas like the Caucasus became a defining feature of the Cold War era. Even after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the legacy of these early oil disputes has continued to fuel tensions and conflicts in the region, with countries vying for control over energy resources and transit routes. The early struggles over Baku's oil wealth foreshadowed the importance of hydrocarbons in shaping modern geopolitical dynamics and underscore the enduring significance of energy security in contemporary international relations.
Simurgh
In Persian mythology, the Simurgh is a benevolent, phoenix-like creature that is depicted as a winged, multi-colored bird of massive proportions. It is associated with fire and is said to dwell in the highest reaches of the cosmic tree of life, representing wisdom, strength, and immortality. Using the image of two Simurgh birds locked in combat can symbolise the epic struggle between two mighty powers, each representing a different ideological or geopolitical force, engaging in a fierce battle for dominance over the precious and combustible resource of crude oil.
The Simurgh's association with fire can be interpreted as a metaphor for the immense energy and wealth that crude oil represents, a coveted prize that has fuelled conflicts and shaped the global balance of power. The birds' massive size and strength can represent the vast economic and military might of the superpowers involved.
Moreover, the Simurgh's mythical status as a creature of great wisdom and longevity can allude to the enduring nature of the conflict over oil, a struggle that has spanned generations and continues to shape the course of history. The epic battle between these two mythical birds can encapsulate the high stakes, intensity, and far-reaching consequences of the clash between superpowers for control over this invaluable resource.
The recent history of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines between Russia and Germany can be woven into the metaphor of two Simurgh birds fighting over crude oil resources.
The Simurgh birds, representing Russia and the West (or specifically, Germany and its European allies), have been engaged in a decades-long struggle for control and influence over energy resources. In this context, the Nord Stream pipelines can be seen as a critical battleground in their epic clash.
Nord Stream 1, which became operational in 2011, was a massive endeavour that allowed Russia to directly supply natural gas to Germany, bypassing transit routes through Ukraine and other nations. This pipeline represented Russia's efforts to tighten its grip on European energy markets and solidify its position as a dominant supplier.
However, the West, wary of Russia's growing influence and seeking to reduce its dependence on Russian energy, threw its weight behind the construction of Nord Stream 2, a parallel pipeline that aimed to further increase gas flows to Europe. This move can be seen as the West's Simurgh spreading its wings in defiance, challenging Russia's dominance in the energy arena.
The completion of Nord Stream 2 in 2021 was met with fierce opposition from the United States and several European nations, who viewed it as a geopolitical weapon that would give Russia undue leverage over Europe's energy security. The subsequent sabotage of both pipelines in September 2022, allegedly by undersea explosions, only added fuel to the metaphorical fire between the two Simurgh birds.
The battle over the Nord Stream pipelines exemplifies the high-stakes nature of the conflict between Russia and the West, with each side employing strategic maneuvers and exerting its influence to gain control over the precious resources that fuel their economies and geopolitical ambitions.
In Persian mythology, the Simurgh is a benevolent, phoenix-like creature that is depicted as a winged, multi-colored bird of massive proportions. It is associated with fire and is said to dwell in the highest reaches of the cosmic tree of life, representing wisdom, strength, and immortality. Using the image of two Simurgh birds locked in combat can symbolise the epic struggle between two mighty powers, each representing a different ideological or geopolitical force, engaging in a fierce battle for dominance over the precious and combustible resource of crude oil.
The Simurgh's association with fire can be interpreted as a metaphor for the immense energy and wealth that crude oil represents, a coveted prize that has fuelled conflicts and shaped the global balance of power. The birds' massive size and strength can represent the vast economic and military might of the superpowers involved.
Moreover, the Simurgh's mythical status as a creature of great wisdom and longevity can allude to the enduring nature of the conflict over oil, a struggle that has spanned generations and continues to shape the course of history. The epic battle between these two mythical birds can encapsulate the high stakes, intensity, and far-reaching consequences of the clash between superpowers for control over this invaluable resource.
The recent history of the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines between Russia and Germany can be woven into the metaphor of two Simurgh birds fighting over crude oil resources.
The Simurgh birds, representing Russia and the West (or specifically, Germany and its European allies), have been engaged in a decades-long struggle for control and influence over energy resources. In this context, the Nord Stream pipelines can be seen as a critical battleground in their epic clash.
Nord Stream 1, which became operational in 2011, was a massive endeavour that allowed Russia to directly supply natural gas to Germany, bypassing transit routes through Ukraine and other nations. This pipeline represented Russia's efforts to tighten its grip on European energy markets and solidify its position as a dominant supplier.
However, the West, wary of Russia's growing influence and seeking to reduce its dependence on Russian energy, threw its weight behind the construction of Nord Stream 2, a parallel pipeline that aimed to further increase gas flows to Europe. This move can be seen as the West's Simurgh spreading its wings in defiance, challenging Russia's dominance in the energy arena.
The completion of Nord Stream 2 in 2021 was met with fierce opposition from the United States and several European nations, who viewed it as a geopolitical weapon that would give Russia undue leverage over Europe's energy security. The subsequent sabotage of both pipelines in September 2022, allegedly by undersea explosions, only added fuel to the metaphorical fire between the two Simurgh birds.
The battle over the Nord Stream pipelines exemplifies the high-stakes nature of the conflict between Russia and the West, with each side employing strategic maneuvers and exerting its influence to gain control over the precious resources that fuel their economies and geopolitical ambitions.
Baku Azerbaijani "Chelyabi"
Baku Azerbaijani "Chelyabi"
Baku Azerbaijani "Chelyabi"
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Jacquard woven blanket, cotton 220x160cm.
Limited edition of 30. 2023
Limited edition of 30. 2023
installation images
