PRESS RELEASE*
Yusuf Arakkal
THE STREET
Aicon Gallery, Palo Alto
June 14th – July 8, 2007
Opening reception, June 14, 6-9pm
"Indeed what is most striking is the immediacy of these works. Yusuf Arakkal transports the viewer to the frontlines of local social issues but also asks us to look inwards and make the connection with the universal psyche."
At various points in Yusuf Arakkal's life, his relationship with the street has been intimate. At one time his home, the streets were his family; at once his classroom, the streets taught him lifelong lessons and at once his workplace, the streets were his only livelihood. Now, when he has gained enough distance but maintained a certain informality with the subject, the street has become his existential muse.
Like Yusuf's earlier works on social issues like drought, famine, untouchability, etc, he continues to set his figures against dilapidated walls and corners. They are either immobile, facing the wall, or moving away. Similarly, they are either in deep contemplation or completely immersed in solitary activity. However, regardless of the figures' lack of engagement with the audience, they connect with a universal sense of human affliction.
Cordially, a similar ambiance accompanies these silent characters. The broken planes and hazy texture is inflamed by an intense chiaroscuro. The ultimate effect lends itself to a plethora of moods and ideas.
The most poignant works have to be the two triptychs of a young boy. Unlike his introvert counterparts, he wears a direct stare, one of defiance but also fear, anger but desolation as well. Ironically, his story is equally mute. And yet, it is amidst this silence that Yusuf's thoughts are heard. While he does not provoke a reaction, nor does he adopt a critical stance he still manages to bring the viewer face to face with the issues.
For more information and visuals please contact:
Natasha Bissonauth at Natasha@aicongallery.com or paloalto@aicongallery.com
T: 650 321 4900