Anj Smith: Drifting Habitations

Anj Smith's 'Drifting Habitations' combines her paintings with a conversation between her and psychologist Orna Guralnik to explore themes of plurality,rewilding, and repurposing. It also includes a poetic intervention by Claire-Louise Bennett.

Format: Hardback
Length: 94 pages
Publication date: 01 January 2024
Publisher: Hauser & Wirth

Anj Smith: Drifting Habitations presents Anj Smith's latest body of work, where ecologically devastated landscapes are host to liminal beings and creatures. The artist's luscious paintings invite viewers to consider the fluidity of their perceptions of the world. This publication features a conversation between psychologist Orna Guralnik and the artist, in which such themes as plurality, rewilding, and repurposing are discussed, as well as a poetic intervention by author Claire-Louise Bennett, who conjures up a roiling world of her own and plays with readers' understanding of reality, nature, and self.

The exhibition explores the boundaries between human and non-human existence, blurring the lines between the natural and the artificial. Through her paintings, Smith invites viewers to contemplate the interconnectedness of all things and the potential for transformation and renewal in even the most desolate of places.

The conversation between Smith and Guralnik delves into the psychological and philosophical implications of our relationship with the natural world. They discuss the importance of rewilding and repurposing in order to create a more sustainable and harmonious relationship with the environment. Guralnik draws on her expertise in cognitive psychology to explore how our perceptions and beliefs shape our interactions with the natural world, while Smith shares her insights into the spiritual and symbolic meanings of nature.

The poetic intervention by Claire-Louise Bennett adds another layer of depth and complexity to the exhibition. Bennett's work explores the intersection of language, imagination, and reality, challenging readers to reconsider their understanding of the world. Through her use of imagery and metaphor, Bennett creates a sense of wonder and awe, inviting viewers to explore the depths of their own consciousness and the interconnectedness of all things.

Overall, Anj Smith: Drifting Habitations is a thought-provoking and immersive exhibition that encourages viewers to explore the complexities of our relationship with the natural world. Through her paintings, conversation, and poetic intervention, Smith creates a space for contemplation and reflection, challenging us to consider the ways in which we can live more sustainably and harmoniously with the environment.

Dimension: 310 x 245 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783906915838