Sham Sul. Out of This Furnace of Doubt, to Forge the Mirror of New Men

12.01.2022 - 23.02.2022

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We are proud to present 'Out of This Furnace of Doubt, to Forge the Mirror of New Men,' an impactful exhibition by the acclaimed sculptor Shamil Sultanov at the Atticus Arts Gallery in Bath. Curated by Sasha Burkhanova-Khabadze, this exhibition was initially intended for the Exposed Arts Projects in London but has found a fitting home in Bath due to its expansive scope and the need for a grander stage.

Shamil Sultanov, now based in London and a 2020 recipient of the prestigious Greek Neatechni Award, is renowned for his ability to blend classical sensibilities with sharp social commentary. His sculptures delve into the complexities of modern existence, critiquing themes of capitalism, digital encroachment, and the transformation of human identity through a lens that is both historical and profoundly contemporary.

This exhibition showcases Sultanov’s unique style, which merges traditional materials such as limestone and marble with modern mediums such as plastic, artificial hair, and fabric. His work reflects a dynamic interplay between the enduring and the ephemeral, encapsulating the tension between age-old values and contemporary societal shifts.

Highlights include sculptures inspired by Shakespearean themes, such as 'Such Stuff as Dreams Are Made On' and 'A Brave New World,' which serve not merely as titles but as conceptual frameworks for exploring the narratives of aspiration, memory, and identity. 'Madcap Revels,' for example, draws from 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream' to combine the figures of the Jester and Diana, illustrating the balance between chaos and order, the ephemeral and the eternal through Sultanov's expressive and multifaceted approach.

'Out of This Furnace of Doubt, to Forge the Mirror of New Men' is more than an art exhibition; it is a philosophical and cultural journey that invites the audience to reflect, engage, and transform. Each piece, a dialogue unto itself, challenges viewers to consider the ways in which history, technology, and identity converge in our increasingly commodified world.

Please note: The entrance to 11a Queen Street, BA1 1HE is closed from Queen Street. Visitors should go through the arch on Harington Place.