The exhibition "Venezia e il Paese delle Meraviglie" (Venice and the Land of Wonders) by Tunisian-Italian artist Lamia Bouzouita was held at the Galerie Saladin in Sidi Bou Saïd from October 3 to 25. The showcase featured 39 works that combine the colors of the Mediterranean and the reflections of Venice, creating a unique universe where geometry meets dreamlike elements. Bouzouita's work is characterized by a blend of her two cultures, with a focus on color research and geometric compositions.
Born in Tunisia, Bouzouita has lived in Venice for over 20 years, where she studied at the Academy of Fine Arts. Her dual cultural background is evident in her work, which goes beyond a simple mix of references. The colors of her homeland and the Venetian environment fuel her artistic language, based on the repetition of motifs, geometric compositions, and an abundance of details. Her Italian training has profoundly marked her conception of painting, with a focus on art history from ancient to contemporary times.
Bouzouita's work is distinguished by her attention to color, influenced by her life in Venice. She notes that Venetian painters are known for their colors, while Florentine painters are known for their drawings. This focus on color is accompanied by a rigorous work on forms, with points, circular shapes, and repeated motifs structuring her compositions. The exhibition featured several series, including "Alice," which explores the famous character from Lewis Carroll's work in a world of geometric shapes and imaginary compositions.
The "Fleurs" series resonates with Bouzouita's Tunisian memories, with references to bougainvillea, jasmine, and natural colors. The "Murano" series draws inspiration from Venetian glassmaking and color games. "Perdu dans le Carnaval" explores the world of masks and costumes from Venice, while the "Ombre" series focuses on contrasts and geometric compositions. Bouzouita's approach to creation prioritizes instinct, stating that she paints what she feels, without choosing the easy path.
Despite the spontaneity of her process, Bouzouita's work is characterized by precision and a rigorous approach. Each composition is based on a meticulous work, where the repetition of forms and color balance occupy a central place. The artist describes this approach as a necessity rather than a pre-established technique. Her work is a reflection of her circulation between two cultures, histories, and sensitivities, affirming a unique pictorial identity.
Bouzouita's exhibition invites viewers to discover Venice beyond the usual itineraries, encouraging them to get lost in the city and follow their hearts. Her work is a testament to the dialogue between her Tunisian roots and her Italian environment. The artist's approach to creation is characterized by a balance between freedom and reflection, with motifs, colors, and cultural references intersecting without limiting the works to a single interpretation.
The exhibition "Venezia e il Paese delle Meraviglie" is a reflection of Bouzouita's artistic journey, which continues to evolve through her dialogue between two cultures. Her work is a vibrant example of the creative possibilities that emerge from the intersection of different artistic traditions and influences.
Key points
- The exhibition featured 39 works that blend Tunisian and Venetian influences.
- Bouzouita's work is characterized by a focus on color research and geometric compositions.
- The artist's dual cultural background is evident in her work, which combines elements of her Tunisian and Italian heritage.
