What is migration?
Human migration is the movement by people from one place to another with the intentions of settling permanently in a new location. While migration has been a feature of humanity throughout history, the current mass displacement of refugees fleeing conflict in different parts of the world is a defining global event.
Many artists have explored the subject and history of migration through symbolic and poetic approaches, evoking a sense of loss, longing and nostalgia for a remote, almost forgotten home.
Chapters (2013/2013) by Haris EpaminondaModern Art Oxford
In her 2013 exhibition 'Chapters', Haris Epaminonda used film, collage, photography, books and objects to reconstruct non-linear narratives that evoke fleeting dreamlike memories of cultures and lands lost.
Contemporary Art of Today: Migration by Modern Art OxfordModern Art Oxford
In her 1998 exhibition at Modern Art Oxford, Mona Hatoum took domestic objects which, through shifts in scale and materiality, appeared hostile and menacing, as a way to engage with issues of alienation, dislocation, identity and threat of the 'other'.
Migration and identity
As people move around the world, they bring their traditions, knowledge, and beliefs with them, often mixing their cultures with those of their new homes. For many artists, their migrations and those of their ancestors, are important in shaping both their personal identities and the art they produce.
The Need For Uncertainty (2008/2008) by Mircea CantorModern Art Oxford
Mircea Cantor addresses the idea of displacement and co-existent worlds, often quietly evoking the uneasy confrontation of ideologies, people and cultures.
Modern Art Oxford is an arts charity founded in 1965. It is a space for everyone to enjoy and experience contemporary art, for free. Every exhibition and event at Modern Art Oxford is supported financially by friends of the gallery and members of the public who help to safeguard our future by making regular donations. Without the support of these generous and committed individuals, we would be unable to produce these inspirational exhibitions, events and activities.
Modern Art Oxford is supported by Arts Council England and Oxford City Council.
The content provided in this series of exhibits and films is designed to provide helpful information on the subjects discussed. The exhibits and films are not designed to be used as complete analysis on these subjects. Images sourced for the exhibits and films are copyright to their respectful owners. Full credit information is listed in the details section linked to each image. Unless otherwise noted, the content provided is © Modern Art Oxford. All rights reserved. The content may not be copied in part or full without permission. Every effort has been made to trace copyright holders and to obtain their permission for the use of copyright material. Modern Art Oxford would be grateful to hear from any interested parties info@modernartoxford.org.uk
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