For the run of FIAC 2019 in Paris, artist Johanna Tordjman transformed the Halle des Blancs Manteaux into an exhibition space with her installation “Act 2: Welcome,” the second part in the series “Pastèques & Paraboles.” Closed earlier this week, Tordjman created an immersion into the Republic of Tordjmanistan—a fictional country where all immigrants are welcome.
Unfolding in three parts, the Tordjman’s installation in “Pastèques & Paraboles” featured the artist’s “Welcome” series, comprised of 18 portraits of 30 different people from the Parisian community, who came from multiple origins. Creating an indoor gallery space within the hall, Tordjman displayed a selection of paintings inspired by her singular vision of the diverse communities around her. Reminiscent of a hand-built shelter, visitors at the show entered a construction of aging wood and metal siding, topped with satellite dishes, where the artist’s portraits line the walls inside.
Courtesy of Johanna Tordjman.
Accompanying the exhibition, Tordjman curated a 10-day roster of events celebrating the community and cultural experience of the imaginary Republic of Tordjmanistan, including an unplugged music night with performances by different artists and a dinner experience, serving the Republic’s signature dishes. Each curated event was meant to offer an opportunity for attendees to connect over a cultural collision of art, music, and food.
Courtesy of Johanna Tordjman.
