Algerian artist Mohamed Bourouissa at a retrospective exhibition at the Palais de Tokyo
Welcome to "Standing at Any Verse," where Algerian artist Mohammed Ben Khemissa hosts discussions about his first exhibition, "Chemistry of Recovery," dedicated to his parents, which is currently being held in Khalid Tokyo until next month. The exhibition transforms the entrance into a lush garden filled with plants and music, turning ordinary objects into living beings. Ben Khemissa talks about his personal and creative relationship with plants, inspired by his experiences at a psychiatric hospital and a museum. He discusses his uncle, Mohamed Bourescha, who spent 40 years at a psychiatric hospital in Brescia, Italy, and how he influenced Ben Khemissa's interest in plants and gardening. Through personal training, Ben Khemissa learned about garden design and began to focus on plants, their colors, and their interactions. His work eventually led him to collaborate on projects in Sydney in 2020, exploring the relationship between humans and plants in urban environments. Ben Khemissa also delves into the importance of sound in his artwork, drawing on his lifelong connection to music and the impact it has had on his creative process. He explains how his exhibition aims to challenge perceptions and explore the intricate interplay between humans, plants, and the environment. Through innovative technologies, such as the use of electrical impulses to generate sound from plants, Ben Khemissa highlights the interconnectedness of all living beings. The exhibition showcases various moments captured by Ben Khemissa, highlighting the fragility and invisibility of life. He discusses challenging societal issues through his artwork, shedding light on the complex relationships we have with our surroundings. By addressing themes of unemployment, social inequality, and community dynamics, Ben Khemissa's exhibition invites viewers to reflect on their own place in society and the impact of their actions. In conclusion, "Standing at Any Verse" serves as a platform for Ben Khemissa to explore the intersection of art, society, and nature, creating a space for contemplation and dialogue about the interconnectedness of all living beings.