G13 Project Room: OVERFLOW by Noor Zahran
02-16 March 2024
In collaboration with MEA Management with G13 gallery, we are proudly present a series of extensive works by Noor Zahran.
Noor Zahran’s solo exhibition “Overflow” encapsulates the essence of contemporary artistic practice, reflecting on the pervasive influence of technology and the digital age. Noor Zahran, recognized for his realistic yet surrealistic approach, intertwines traditional mediums like ink and paper with modern tools such as 3D software. His works delve into the complexities of online culture, depicting themes of digital dependency, misinformation, and the blurred lines between online and offline personas. Through allegorical imagery and evocative undertones, Zahran provokes introspection on the impact of technology on human behavior and society. This exhibition serves as a poignant commentary on our current reality, showcasing Noor Zahran as an emerging artist deeply attuned to the zeitgeist of the information age.
Noor Zahran‘s Solo will runs from 2 to 16 March 2024 at G13 Gallery @ G13 PROJECT ROOM.
Deceptive Flood
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2023
Artist Statement
“The notion of ‘deceptive flood’ serves as a narrative to highlight the overwhelming influx of misleading information pervasive in contemporary media. It reflects a broader concern about how media channels, including online platforms, may present distorted or inaccurate portrayals of food products, contributing to a growing skepticism about the reliability of information in the digital age.”
Domino Effect
Noor Zahran
82x132cm
Ink on Paper
2024
Artist Statement
In “Domino Effect,” an angry emoji acts as a bowling ball, striking pins to illustrate the ripple effect of negative online content. Like a chain reaction in bowling, one negative expression online can influence others. Simplifying the concept with a familiar emoji, the artwork underscores how easily negativity spreads. The title, “Domino Effect,” emphasizes this sequential impact, highlighting the potential harm of online interactions. Ultimately, it prompts reflection on each individual’s responsibility in fostering a more positive digital environment.
Final Stage
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2023
Artist Statement
“The artwork explores the intricate relationship between time, mortality, and the digital age. Depicting Pacman devouring clocks instead of power cookies, the piece symbolizes society’s consumption by the relentless passage of time. The three clocks, set at 01:00, 00:00, and 03:00, allude to the Quran’s 103rd chapter, Surah Al-Asr, emphasizing the profound message about the significance of time. The blue ghost embodies death, haunting Pacman’s path. The title, ‘Final Stage,’ underscores the inevitability of mortality. Pacman represents how some people spend too much time on screens in the digital world, engaging in activities that don’t benefit them. The artwork encourages us to be mindful of how we use our time and suggests that spending it wisely is crucial, as highlighted in both the drawing and the wisdom found in Surah Al-Asr.”
Free to Play
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2024
Artist Statement
“Free to Play” portrays a Gameboy transformed into a social media hub, symbolizing the potential downsides of excessive screen time and the need for a balanced approach to technology. By imagining social media in the ’90s, it prompts reflection on the impact of early exposure to digital platforms and advocates for mindful engagement with technology for our well-being and relationships.
Metric Obsession
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2024
Artist Statement
“Metric Obsession” portrays Super Mario uncovering numbers from a mystery box, representing society’s fixation on digital metrics. Like Mario’s quest for points, individuals chase validation through likes and shares on social media. The artwork humorously parallels this pursuit with the game, prompting reflection on the significance of virtual metrics and challenging the idea that online popularity equals real-world status. Ultimately, it invites us to reconsider what truly defines respect and recognition beyond the digital realm.
Not For Sale
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2023
Artist Statement
“Not for Sale” is a captivating artwork that challenges our obsession with social media validation. It portrays a fallen shopping cart strewn with blue hearts, symbolizing the fleeting nature of online approval. The abandoned cart represents the discarded pursuit of validation through superficial measures, leaving viewers to question the underlying meaning behind seeking “Likes” on social media. As the hearts lay scattered, the message becomes apparent: the value of “Likes” is ultimately hollow and purposeless. This artwork urges viewers to contemplate the authenticity of their digital interactions.
Prison of the Mind
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2024
Artist Statement
“PRISON OF THE MIND vividly illustrates the ethical concerns arising from immature online operators disseminating misleading information to the general public. In an era where information is easily accessible, the urgent need to address these ethical issues becomes paramount. The potential long-term damage wrought by unchecked misinformation underscores the critical importance of promoting responsible and truthful information dissemination in the digital landscape.”
Shout It Out Loud
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2023
Artist Statement
In “Shout It Out Loud,” the artist ingeniously merges the form of a grenade with that of a microphone, encapsulating the formidable force inherent in people’s voices. This artwork symbolizes the incredible power individuals possess to uplift and strengthen one another through vocal expression. Each voice is likened to a unique explosion, capable of sparking positive change and fostering empowerment. The piece serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact our words can have, resonating loudly like the explosive energy of a grenade. By celebrating the potency of communication, “Shout It Out Loud” urges all to recognize and embrace their ability to make a difference through the strength of their voices, transcending barriers of background or language proficiency.
Waiting for Perfection
Noor Zahran
82 x 132cm
Ink on Paper
2024
Artist Statement
The artwork captures the juxtaposition of life and death, symbolized by the flower and skeletal form, serving as a metaphor for the deceptive allure of online personas. This evocative artwork invites contemplation on the societal phenomenon of ceaseless waiting for an elusive ideal, be it in friendships, romantic connections, or other facets of virtual interaction. By illustrating the futility of such pursuits, the piece underscores the dissonance between perceived perfection online and the harsh reality of authenticity. “Waiting for Perfection” beckons viewers to reflect on the preciousness of time and the genuine connections overlooked in the pursuit of an illusory and unattainable digital utopia.
- NOOR ZAHRAN
