ENFE'AL

2023

Code-Generated Visuals / Solo Exhibition

The Enfe'al collection derives from the recent audiovisual set by Ali Phi entitled Maqruh. In Islamic terminology, the term makruh refers to a detestable act although it is neither forbidden nor entirely allowed. It exists within a space of liminal ambivalence – disapproved of but not punishable. The audiovisual set is inspired by this concept, as well as the contrasts between the dark ambiance and tranquillity of techno-electronic music paired with Middle-Eastern and West-Asian musical and visual motifs merged with western digital media processing technologies.

The visual elements of the collection are created using 3D point clouds of ancient architecture, 2D videos processed through visual programming and creative coding, as well as digital 3D illustrations of reconstructed structures. Digital technologies allow the artist to examine ancient Persian architectures, their sacred geometries, histories and relationship to Islamic concepts like makruh, from a contemporary vantage point. The visual materials are modified by the soundscape and processed in real-time. The sound design includes field recordings of Iranian regional and ritual music. The beats are based on local patterns. Digital synthesizers produce the audio element.

The main project is composed of seven elements. Together they depict the cyclical formation of an entity and include the following phases: passivity, avoidance, constriction, conformity, elevation, expiry and revival. The number seven holds significant meaning in West Asian culture, acting as a metaphor for infinity or completion. It is invoked frequently in prophetic narrations and sacred texts to illustrate the cosmic scale.

These seven stages are based on the verb forms Enfeāl, which is used to assign the meaning of affectability to a verb and Efteāl, which is used to assign the meaning of obedience to a verb as well as the subject’s influence. These words are generally used in both Arabic and Farsi in the fields of science, mathematics, physics and chemistry (alchemy).

The Enfe'al exhibition explores select aspects of the Maqruh project, delving into the profound connections and reciprocal process of affecting and being affected. By employing technology-driven materials and navigating the interplay between ancient concepts, aesthetics, and modern digital presentation tools, Ali Phi explores the inherent uncertainty in decision making during the creative process.

The exhibition illustrates the fusion of traditional art and architectural aesthetics from the greater Iranian plateau with the latest advancements in real-time digital processing, offering a captivating exploration at the intersection between past and present, tradition and innovation and endless possibilities, probabilities, and contingencies.

Exhibitions:
2023 | Nur Festival | Kazan, Tatarstan.
2023 | Hamzianpour & Kia Gallery, Los Angeles, USA.

The project is supported by the Canada Council of Arts & the Ontario Arts Council, an agency of the Government of Ontario.