THE WORLD IS FLAT exhibition artist | Aditi Patwari
Circle of Life 2, mixed media textile art, felt, upcycled foam, ribbon, 50x50cm, 2020
Circle of Life 3, mixed media textile art, felt, upcycled foam, ribbon, 50x50cm, 2020
Circle of Life 4, mixed media textile art, felt, upcycled foam, ribbon, 50x50cm, 2020
My visual inspiration comes from travel and architecture. I look at architecture specifically because these spaces reflect the philosophies and ideologies of the people who live within them. Having lived in 3 countries and travelling to over 20 others myself, I am influenced by the social norms and attitudes of different parts of the world. In my work, I experiment with mixing a variety of materials and techniques; which represents this mix of ideologies and cultures that have shaped me. My travels open me up to new realities, ways of living, thinking and being; which has resulted in an ongoing process of internal globalization.
As we see divisive politics and the general idea of “us vs them” emerging in different parts of the world, I believe it is extremely important for each of us to look within ourselves and create spaces for cross-cultural communication and understanding. The works on show are from two collections; each representing a different culture. Circle of Life is inspired by the cultural heritage and architectural language of Bali, while Structured Chaos reflects the dynamic and juxtaposing facets of Dubai’s cultural heritage and focus on modern day innovation.
Structured Chaos 1, mixed media textile art, felt, ribbon, metallic frame, 97x67cm, 2020
Structured Chaos 2, mixed media textile art, felt, ribbon, metallic frame, 97x67cm, 2020
Structured Chaos 3, mixed media textile art, felt, ribbon, metallic frame, 97x67cm, 2020
As a whole, the themes I explore in my work revolve around human nature. I try to understand what makes us different and unique, and what makes us similar and one. These elements are important in my work as I wish to communicate that our differences are just on the surface — be it race, religion, language, geography, or anything that might distinguish us. All human beings are looking for the same things in life — love, happiness and connection. Thus, my work tells the stories of different cultures around the world and celebrates our underlying similarities to bring together the human race.
Aditi Patwari is a Textile Artist and Designer who has created projects for Interiors, Stationery, and Fashion. She has lived and worked in India, the UK, and the UAE, where she currently resides. In 2019 she founded her bespoke textile brand Dea, to bring innovative textile and art solutions to the interiors in the Middle East.
