In my Neither Here, Nor There solo show, my intention was to visualize the process of changing and shifting in layers of one’s identity because of immigration and displacement. I wanted to convey this notion of living in-between identities, a state which leads one to experience the feelings of ambiguity and uncertainty. Different layers are added to my identity constantly, and I believe that these layers inherit a significant part of their existence from the places I reside.

Neither Here, Nor There was the result of questioning these facets of my identity that are existing altogether. I found that by being in a place, I gain new dimensions of identity, but this does not mean I erase or abolish my past self.

In this exhibition, I revealed that I am becoming the spaces between selves. My analogy has roots in the concept of being in-between the dichotomy of inside and out, public and private, and you and me. 

The prints are two overlaid self-portraits of me in two different expressions, and in two different colours. By making different imagery and examining distinct compositions that I could create out of the repetition of only two plates, my endeavour was to depict these layers concurrently so as to stress their contradictions and similarities.

~ Gallery 621, Department of Art, University of Calgary, Fall 2015, ©Marzieh Mosavarzadeh.