Mohammad Abbasi | The Third Space

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Mohammad Abbasi, “The Tree,” 2023

acrylic on canvas, 28 x 33 ¼” (courtesy of the Gallery)

Opening Reception, Saturday, November 23 from 2 to 5 pm.

“The third space” is a phrase introduced by Homi K. Bhabha in his book "The Location of Culture", which  speaks about the dynamic identity of the diaspora and resonates with the themes explored in this exhibition. The concept of home, for many, symbolizes security and a sense of belonging, encompassing a broad and borderless definition or an architectural structure defined by physical and cultural walls.  In this exhibition, Iranian-born, Edmonton-based artist, Mohammad Abbasi delves into the exploration of these borders, seeking a quintessential structure that aligns with his conceptualization. 

Pictorial space, where his structures come to life, allows for more mystery and illusion, a fluid realm where distortions find expression. These distortions, unique to each individual and group, are shaped by cultural and geographical migrations, as well as the impacts of globalization and the technological revolution.

 In Mohammad’s painting approach, non-linguistic thinking takes precedence, with visual images and plans initiating the creative process rather than written ideas. Each collection features simple objects or images, such as houses, boats, or cubic shapes, serving as starting points influenced by his experiences as a Middle Eastern diaspora immigrant. 

Mohammad Abbasi was born in Tehran, Iran and holds a Bachelor of Science in Surveying Engineering from the Zanjan University (Iran), a Master’s Degree in Painting from Tehran Azad University (Iran) and a Masters of Fine Art Degree from the University of Alberta in Edmonton where he now lives and teaches.