Movement in Conversation with Noa
Exhibition at Kunst Kan in Amsterdam
2024
May 3 – May 25
Text by Sarah van Vliet
“Movement in Conversation with Noa” is an exhibition that delves into the dynamic interplay between movement and stasis in artistic expression.
The genesis of this exhibition traces back to an encounter with the oeuvre of artist, choreographer and dancer Noa Eshkol (1925-2007). Eshkol was a dance composer and textile artist, famous for her wall carpets and best known for the Eshkol-Wachman Movement Notation (co-created with Avraham Wachman) for noting dance choreography, similar to musical scores.
Her fusion of movement and artistry left an indelible mark on the artist. Not only did this encounter evoke deep emotional resonance, it also sparked a profound realization of the boundless potential for artistic practice to flow and evolve.
In the realm of visual art, the connection between movement and creation may seem obvious. Whether it’s the fluid strokes of a paintbrush or the tactile manipulation of sculptural materials, the physical gestures leave an imprint on the final work. Yet, what “Movement in Conversation with Noa” seeks to unveil is the enduring impact of these movements, as they coalesce and crystallize into static forms.
Through a diverse array of artworks, this exhibition invites viewers to contemplate the nuanced relationship between movement and stillness. From paintings imbued with the kinetic energy of gestural brushstrokes to sculptures that capture the essence of dynamic tension, each piece serves as a testament to the transformative power of artistic motion.
Through the lens of Noa Eshkol’s pioneering approach to interdisciplinary creation, Johan Ibrahim Adam’s “Movement in Conversation with Noa” invites us to reimagine the boundaries of artistic expression and embrace the fluidity of the creative process.
This exhibition has been made possible with the generous support from Region Örebro Län, Uppsala municipality and The Anglo-Swedish Society.
Thanks to Hedvig, all the foxes in London, Beril Nur Denli, Àngels Miralda, Estrid Ericson Foundation, Steve Brown, The Glass Factory, Tshwane University of Technology, the glass blowers at Konstfack university and Åsa Jungnelius.