* Origins and Inspiration: What inspired you to establish unarchived_semiotics, and how did your background in curatorial practice shape its mission?
The idea of founding this platform came to me while I was working on the group show, Trajectory of Thoughts, at Gori Art House 2021. Unarchived_semiotics grew out of the interplay between critical and creative thinking, which is essential for art expression. This platform was born out of a desire explore how art can be a dynamic space to examine and challenge social and individual character. My curatorial practice has always sought to create interdisciplinary connections, and spatial experiences. I have moved beyond traditional exhibitions in order to invite audiences to a more nuanced interaction with art. Unarchived_semiotics relies on a conceptual framework based on semiology and symbolism to provide tools for understanding and interpreting art’s often complex languages.
* Platform’s mission: unarchived_semiotics is a focus on unconventional narratives and critically minded theory. Could you explain what you think the platform contributes to contemporary discourse, and why you find it important?
I believe that artistic forms are uniquely positioned to reveal social undercurrents and individual identities, providing a space for experimental and conceptual understanding. Unarchived_semiotics, by focusing on these layers meanings, invites artists and audiences to engage in the broader sociocultural contexts that influence creative work. This platform is a call to a more interpretative and connected practice. These methodological approaches inform the platform’s mission of connecting creative exploration with critical dialogue, making unarchived_semiotics an essential space for reflective and progressing artistic practice.
* Curatorial Approach and Thematic Focus: How does your curatorial approach shape your work on unarchived_semiotics, and what unique considerations guide you in developing this platform?
My vision is often influenced by poetic reflections in various media. This approach helps to deepen the understanding of artistic trends by engaging outside of the conventions of mainstream culture and commercial tastes. By incorporating poetry, in-depth analysis and other forms of expression, I am able to position myself as an alternative.
The first project realized by unarchived_semiotics, Trajectory of Thoughts merged existential themes with worn images and traces. It expanded visual language and added philosophical and socio-cultural insights, in collaboration with invited artist Tornike Gognadze. Keti Kapanadze. Thea Nili. Nino Sakandelidze. Oto Shengelia. David Chikhladze.
Views of the installation Trajectory Of Thoughts. 2023. TBC Concept. Photos by Guram Kapanadze
The latest group show, ‘Ephemeral Manipulations,’ explored the “blurring” of digital and physical realms using non-binary and feminine perspectives to highlight the visible. This was done in collaboration with the following artists: Thea Nili, KetoMa (Yamadatesla), Kristine Tsiashvili and Nina Tsotsoria.
Ephemeral manipulations. Installation views. 2024. ArtArea Gallery
* Engagement with Artists. As you have already stated, the platform features diverse voices from both established and emerging artists. How do you select these artists and collaborate with them? And how does this local basis resonate with international audiences.
There is no predetermined list of artists. Instead, the process is fluid and changes according to the objectives and requirements of each project. I try to create a collaborative framework where the thematic integrity is taken into consideration, and visual and spatial dialogs are integral to conceptual depth of an exhibition. Multigenerational dialogues are always inspiring to me, as they introduce diverse perspectives that develop discourse and highlight different time layers.
5.Challenges in Independent Curating & Future steps: What challenges have you faced curating independently with unarchived_semiotics? How you see future developments?
Independent curation has both advantages and challenges. We are a Georgian-based organization that faces significant resource constraints, and we receive limited support for experimental arts. I create a space for critical and analytical engagement in art through innovative initiatives and collaborations. Unarchived_semiotics creates a space that allows for a deeper exploration into current critical themes.
Future projects will encourage critical engagement, reflective practices and integrating local and international perspectives. Unarchived_semiotics creates research-based initiatives, and redefines the boundaries for creative and theoretical thought.
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