In FOYER-LA’s current project, A Possible Fantastical Narrative, Katayoun Vaziri and Mookwon Han expose vulnerability, often with humor, in their narratives investigating the complexities of our relationship to meaning. Through observation, Vaziri constructs domestic spaces with a subtle hope for revolution and change within daily life. The explorer in Han’s video, “Silkroad,” pursues a surreal expedition in search of connection.

Vaziri’s work depicts ordinary people, including herself, in ordinary settings, engaged in ordinary activities. Her small-scale paintings reveal a seemingly uncomplicated, even tender moment of exchange. She asks the viewer to enter into her world where “we are political agents of social transformation, yet inevitably subjected to socio-economic inequalities that demand us to forgo our ideals for the sake of survival.” Vaziri refuses monetary gain from her work and donates any proceeds to community organizations.

Han searches for change on a spiritual level. The character in “Silkroad,” again a representation of self, exists superimposed onto lush natural landscapes with a tenacious desire to connect with various creatures on a quest for meaning. In this diary of adventure humans are seemingly small and insignificant while nature is immense and all-knowing. Through humility graced with humor, Han exposes our human limitations with curiosity and an earnest longing for transformation. “I wish everyone could live bravely according to the order suitable to them,” says Han.

In the work of both Vaziri and Han, one encounters stasis, tinged with melancholy. Characters are isolated and lonely in their seemingly futile endeavors.  Reflecting the absurdity and reality of life, the artists show us a search for emotional connection and understanding as a possible fantastical narrative.

Artists: Mookwon Han Katayoun Vaziri