In "Version Soft," Hicham Benohoud weaves a complex narrative through a series of self-portraits that defy conventional categorisation. Stripped bare, Benohoud's body becomes a canvas for an elaborate interplay of threads, yarns, and tapes. These materials, often associated with domesticity and craft, take on a new life as they ensnare the artist in a web of his own making. The vulnerability of the naked form juxtaposed with the constraining threads evokes a sense of tension, as if the artist is both the puppet and the puppeteer. What sets "Version Soft" apart is its dual nature: the photographs are meticulously staged, yet they possess the raw, unfiltered quality of documentary photography. This duality adds layers of complexity to the images, making them a rich subject for interpretation. Surrealism in the EverydayBenohoud masterfully demonstrates how surreal elements can be seamlessly integrated into everyday settings. His self-portraits are not just a display of artistic skill but a commentary on the boundaries of 'normalcy.'
By introducing elements of the absurd into mundane environments, he challenges our perceptions and encourages us to question the societal norms that often suppress creative expression. Version Soft" is more than a series of photographs; it is a revolutionary act that tears holes in the fabric of conventional life. It serves as a poignant reminder that the surreal is not an escape from reality, but a lens through which we can view it anew.
Hicham Benohoud's "Version Soft" is a series of self-portraits that delve into themes of irony, violence, and self-deprecation to express the artist's discomfort with his situation and culture. Born in Marrakech in 1968, Benohoud is a Moroccan artist who challenges conformity and addresses issues within Islam through his art.
The "Version Soft" series is particularly notable for its exploration of identity and its bold critique of Islam's constraints on individuality. In these self-portraits, Benohoud often depicts himself without facial features, creating an unsettling effect that confronts the viewers. The material distortions within the series further emphasize the artist's struggle with societal tensions and Islamic restrictions.
Over a period of five years, Benohoud created this evocative series, intertwining his personal experiences with broader cultural critiques. He challenges the perceived homogeneity of Muslims and defies norms, incorporating his unique perspectives into his work. The series serves as a fusion of art with identity and cultural critique, representing the artist's resistance to the constraints he perceives in his culture and religion.
