The exhibition "The Rose of Jericho" at the Institute of Islamic Cultures (ICI) from January 20 to June 30, 2024, is a true celebration of the interaction between art and botany. Presenting a variety of artistic works by Aurélia Zahedi, it offers an immersive experience. The mysterious and sacred trajectory of the Rose of Jericho is illustrated through drawings, sculptures, photographs, paintings, and performances. Under the direction of Clélia Coussonnet, this exhibition offers a captivating journey between reality and fiction, exploring the riches of the desert and the mysteries of a legendary plant.
One plant, many dimensions
The Rose of Jericho: A Symbol of Resilience
Beyond its botanical beauty, the Rose of Jericho is a symbol of resilience and resistance. This plant, blowing through the desert with the wind, becomes a powerful metaphor in Zahedi's hands. The artist, in collaboration with the Bedouins of Nabi Moussa, explores the beliefs and legends surrounding this eternal plant. The exhibition focuses on how desert flora is intimately linked to the history and culture of a people marked by territorial regionalization.
Reflections on territory and culture
With Clélia Coussonnet, the exhibition's journey becomes a poignant narrative about territorial belonging and cultural preservation. This unique collaboration brings a critical dimension to the exhibition, questioning the gradual disappearance of ancestral traditions. Zahedi's works, combined with illuminating texts, extend this reflection on cultural erasure and the importance of collective memory.
The exhibition: A unique journey
Between Article and science
The exhibition is distinguished by its interdisciplinary approach. Marie Rue, a doctor of agricultural sciences, enriches the exhibition with her botanical observations. Through her travel journal, she details the specific characteristics of the Rose of Jericho, offering a scientific perspective that complements Zahedi's artistic approach.
A political and social issue
Stéphanie Latte Abdallah, a historian specializing in the Middle East, highlights the consequences of colonization in the West Bank. She particularly highlights the impact on agriculture and food sovereignty. This dialogue between art, history, and politics underscores the importance of art as a vehicle for social debate and awareness.
Multidisciplinary programs
The exhibition is not limited to artwork alone. A variety of programs accompany visitors. The experience is enriched by lectures, discussions, and artistic performances that allow for a deeper exploration of Zahedi's themes. The exhibition's message is reinforced by this comprehensive approach, which reflects the various aspects of The Rose of Jericho.
The scheduled events are designed to reach a wide audience. Special ceremonies, film screenings, and children's art workshops are planned. Each activity aims to engage visitors in a dialogue around the exhibition's themes.
Biographies of the main actresses
Aurélia Zahedi : A Committed Artist
A graduate and renowned artist, Aurélia Zahedi is a major figure in the contemporary art scene. Her impressive career and numerous artist residencies demonstrate her deep commitment to exploring the connections between art, culture, and society.
Clélia Coussonnet: Innovative curator
Exhibition curator, researcher, and author Clélia Coussonnet is known for her bold interdisciplinary projects. Her research focuses on political botany and power relations, offering unique insights into the themes explored in the exhibition.
The Rose of Jericho, an artistic and cultural journey
“The Rose of Jericho” at ICI is more than an exhibition. It is an invitation to a cultural and spiritual journey. Through the art of Aurélia Zahedi and the curation of Clélia Coussonnet, this exhibition transcends the traditional boundaries of art to offer an immersive and reflective experience. It reminds us of the power of art in preserving memory, transmitting culture, and raising awareness of contemporary social and political issues.
For those passionate about art, culture, and history, this exhibition is a must-see. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into a rich and engaging artistic universe, revealing the many layers of meaning behind the mystical Rose of Jericho.
Ema Lynnx
