In his work, Mohsin Shafi (born 1982) brings together two seemingly opposing worlds: the one of his cultural roots in Pakistan, the other in which he addresses his queer identity. The exhibition at the Kunsthalle Krems offers a deep insight into complex issues of global relevance: homophobia, racism, and restrictions on personal freedoms.
This is an attempt to claim some agency in an otherwise deeply homophobic world.
Queer Identity in the Tension Between Tradition and Modernity
As a queer person in Pakistan, Mohsin Shafi has to live his sexual identity in secret. This is also reflected in his art, which can be divided into two areas: works that can be exhibited in Pakistan and do not address his queer identity, and those that he only shows outside his homeland. In these works, the artist combines his sexuality with traditional Pakistani culture.
Photo Collage as Exhibition Highlight
A large-format photo collage forms the centerpiece of the exhibition. Mohsin Shafi creates with this work an uncensored parallel world. Naked bodies, symbols from the LGBTQ community, and homosexual couples harmonize here with elements from Pakistani culture such as traditional robes, ancient temples and religious motifs.
Stay at AIR – ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Niederösterreich
Mohsin Shafi was a guest in Krems as part of the international fellowship program AIR – ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Niederösterreich from December 2023 to January 2024. The main work of the exhibition, which has already been shown at the Queer Museum Vienna, was created during this time.
Empress Elisabeth (Sisi), Racism and Homophobia
In his latest work, Shafi examines the poetry of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Also shown are works that address global homophobia and racist encounters Shafi has experienced at Western airports.
In cooperation with AIR – ARTIST IN RESIDENCE Niederösterreich
Curator: Andreas Hoffer