A performative installation by Inès Jasmine Mesbahi
“You are free to wander around, interact, sit, sleep and even eat. Make yourself at home. Yet, please, be
aware that this space is meant to decay.”
Inès Jasmine is a French-Algerian visual artist whose practice stands against the injunction to invisibility, the
erasure of colonised bodies, and patriarchal dynamics. Drawing on both personal experience and archival
research, she uses different media such as performance, video and installation to provide narratives close
to visual activism.
Her recent participation in the 72nd Graduation Works Exhibitions of Tokyo University of the Arts showcased an
innovative and thought-provoking installation that not only invited viewers to engage with the artwork but also
served as a platform for a profound celebration of Arab culture and a show of solidarity with Palestine.
The installation, an outdoor portrayal of an Arab living room, went beyond visual aesthetics, incorporating a
unique performative element. What set this apart was not just the visual aesthetics but the performative
aspect of the installation. Spectators were not mere observers; they were encouraged to actively
participate and engage with the artwork in a manner that resonated with them personally.
On the 31st day of the exhibition, Inès Jasmine took her artistic vision a step further by organizing a
dedicated Palestinian Event on the installation grounds. The event attracted a diverse crowd, each person
drawn by the opportunity to celebrate and support Palestine through various mediums.
The Palestinian Event hosted a plethora of activities, ensuring a rich and immersive experience for
participants. A sign workshop allowed attendees to create visual statements of solidarity, expressing their
support to the Palestinian cause. Kites flying became a symbolic act, echoing the desire for freedom and
unity. Dance performances of traditional dabke, chants, poetry readings, and insightful talks formed a
beautiful and varied palette of artistic expressions.
This event was a collaborative effort that brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Collaborators such as Oku, Asako, Hanin, Zac, Misa, Aiko, Emily, Geji and many others contributed to the
success of the event. This collaborative spirit mirrored the unity and shared purpose that the event aimed
to foster.
Inès Jasmine’s commitment stands as powerful examples of how art can transcend traditional boundaries
and become a platform for dialogue, celebration, and solidarity. By encouraging active engagement and
collaboration, Inès Jasmine has crafted an artistic narrative that goes beyond the visual, creating an
immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact on both the local and global communities. Her work
shows the transformative potential of art to inspire social change and foster connections across cultures.
Contact/Inquiry:
allaboutines@gmail.com
IG: @inesjazm
