OPEN STUDIO
SATURDAY 6-8pm
Nov 12
Rohan Khanna
Field Resident, October 2 - November 13, 2022
Artist Statement
My work reimagines how our senses can be heightened, using darkness to create a distinct space that transforms recognizable materials into elusive works of art. These installations present a lack of control, inviting viewers to consider the risks of the unknown by compelling them to venture into their surroundings. As their eyes adjust, that feeling of initial unsettlement transforms into curiosity as each piece becomes part of a larger world left to discover. Within this world are found objects, organic properties, and glowing materials that, when combined, suspends each individual purpose to create a cohesive aesthetic. These pieces at first mystify, and then entropically become understood the longer one spends pondering their presence. The significance of each item gets broken down and repurposed towards something that is mysterious and hypnotizing. In addition, I create performances and write poetry bringing together elements of ritual and mysticism to the overall concept.
Biographical Statement
Rohan Khanna is an artist and writer who grew up living in Washington D.C., South Korea, Vietnam, and The United Arab Emirates. These experiences led to deep appreciation for different cultures and an interest in exploration, art, and storytelling. He attended The School of the Art Institute of Chicago under the Presidential Scholarship and graduated with a B.F.A. He has participated in residencies at The International Center for the Arts, Italy, UrbanGlass, Brooklyn, Domaine de Boisbuchet, France, D’Clinic Studios, Hungary, and at The Knight Foundation Art + Research Center, Miami. His work has been exhibited in multiple group shows and solo exhibitions.
KHANAA’S PROJECT:
Recently, I have been investigating concepts of fossilization, decay, entropy, and how objects left behind tell a story about both the reality and fantasy of what previously existed. The images I have submitted with this application show my entry point into this conceptual exploration. These five pieces were created during a residency this summer and were presented in a solo exhibition at the end of the term. I would like to continue this investigation during my time at The Field Residency and make more pieces that explore these concepts. I think that now that I have a solid foundation and aesthetic language for what I am trying to create that time to experiment in a studio will allow for further growth and deeper contemplation. During my time at The Field Residency I aim to make 5-7 new pieces to add to this larger body of work.
Field Residency
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