Murano Glass Sculptures by Barry Wolfryd at Al-Tiba9 Gallery

Barry Wolfryd's solo show at Al-Tiba9 Gallery invites the visitors through Murano Glass Sculptures to reassess their own perceptions of existence, recognizing the interplay between human fragility and resilience.

Wolfryd's Murano Glass sculptures delve into the evolving human condition amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting societal shifts accelerated by technological advancements. Exploring themes of aggression and protection, as well as the implications of Artificial Intelligence, his series navigates the complexities of contemporary existence. Transitioning from canvas to sculpture, Wolfryd extends his exploration of fragility and conflict through Murano's glass works, symbolizing the transient nature of life. Inspired by his exhibition "The Fragility of the Absurd," his glass sculptures serve as metaphors for the absurdities of modern life, particularly exploring war clichés. Each piece, with titles like "Shell shocked" and "A drop in the bucket," offers insight into the underlying realities of conflict, delicately captured within the fluidity of glass. Wolfryd's exhibition serves as a poignant reflection on enduring themes of conflict, transformation, and the ongoing struggle for existence in today's world.

Artist biography:

Barry Wolfryd has conducted the major part of his artistic career in Mexico, where he has lived for the last 40 years. Even though he explores distinctive themes, the basis for all his work is the portrayal of elaborate symbols, icons, and objects that recognizes consciously or intuitively across the globe. His work reveals humanity’s inextricable link in a chain of popular images that identifies “culture.”Following an invitation from Berengo Studios in Murano, Italy, he started developing a body of glass sculpture work. Since then, glass has become a great medium to shape his artistic endeavor. Wolfryd focuses on the use of iconography and popular imagery as a vehicle for criticism.The work generates and investigates the exploration and exploitation of “human symbology,” the many “forms” of how we relate to ourselves and others. Wolfryd aims to “awaken minds” to fleeting governing laws by virtue of playing pictorial detective through challenging social norms. He creates a tangible environment in which the viewer challenges or observes the perspectives about the qualities of culture and history.Barry Wolfryd has held more than 40 individual exhibitions and participated in more than 120 group presentations. Among them, exhibitions in relevant museums, institutions and galleries in various countries.

Program

18:00 – 18:30 Welcome Drink and free walk through the gallery.
18:30 – 18:45 Presentation of the exhibition and meet the artist.
18:45 – 19:20 Guided tour with the artist Barry Wolfryd and the gallery director and curator Mohamed Benhadj.
19:20 – 19:30 Q&A with the artist.
19:30 – 20:30 Finissage of the exhibition, drinks and music.

Participation
Maximum 40 attendees. Members priority.

Free of costs.