Living in the midst of a bustling city where we are surrounded by countless high rises that seem to extend into vertical infinity. Afa Annfa’s first solo exhibition in Paris, presented at JPS Gallery will prompt you to question whether these lavish structures are an outcome of human civilisation’s advancement. Or simply a facade that distracts us from the fragility of human civilisation as we grapple with the rising prevalence of loneliness and social isolation in modern societies?
Inspired by her experience of failing to seek a sense of belongingness in any social group, Afa Annfa hoped to unravel the interconnection between individuals and the collective. What she discovered was humankind’s history of waging wars for various self-righteous reasons yet failing to learn from the cruel aftermath. Human civilisations repeated incompetence in handling such grave affairs is metaphorised into ceramic vases painted with facades of buildings. The exquisite craftsmanship of each vase symbolises human wisdom and civilisation, yet the fragile nature of ceramics makes one question whether civilisation indeed furthers humanity’s progression.
Afa Annfa will also present a series of paper works framed with concrete to emulate small windows the size of our mobile phones. Technology has enhanced the size and diversity of our social networks, encouraging us to no longer fear loneliness or worry about separateness. But its replacement of real-world social interactions has led many of us to enjoy a life of seclusion. Drawing inspiration from how we all live in close proximity, yet we are all alone, the independent windows displayed together portray a harmonious society whilst the beauty of each individual’s life is highlighted when viewed separately.
Whether you belong to a window that is part of a larger group or a window that is secluded from the rest, it is unnecessary to question or deny others’ way of life even in the face of human civilisation’s fragility. Only through self-growth and inner abundance can the fear of loneliness be fully overcome. Afa Annfa’s solo exhibition Peas encourages us to take pride in our uniqueness by staying true to ourselves because only then can we live a fulfilled life.
Afa Annfa is one of the emerging stars in the local art scene. Her works probe the complexities of human emotions and our connection with one another, capturing tensions between the human psyche and worldly materials.
Her practice recalls the style of Japanese Ukiyo-e and irregular comics, depicting figures that seem to be fictional in an atmospheric environment yet remain substantial and grounded. Afa creates narratives and a unique language to manifest her inner visions through images adapted from popular culture.
JPS Gallery Paris
12 Rue Notre Dame de Nazareth, 75003 Paris, France
