Ayman Essa

Benji Boyadgian

/ ARTISTS EXHIBITED / Artist, Ayman Essa, Palestinian Artist /

Benji Boyadgian is an artist born in Jerusalem in 1983. He studied architecture at the ENSAPLV School of Architecture (L’Ecole Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Paris La Villette), specializing in urban sociology in post-conflict areas. Boyadgian’s artistic practice revolves around research-based projects that explore various themes, including perception, memory, territory, architecture, and landscape.

Boyadgian employs multiple artistic mediums in his work, with painting and drawing as his primary tools. He also creates site-specific installations to integrate his art into specific spaces and contexts. His interdisciplinary approach allows him to engage with diverse aspects of his subjects, merging his architectural background with artistic expression.

Boyadgian’s exhibitions have been featured in venues around the world. Some of his notable exhibitions include “Little did they know” at EVA International in Limerick (2021), “The Discord” at Al Ma’mal Foundation for Contemporary Art in Jerusalem (2017), “AQUA” at Chateau de Penthes in Geneva and SESC Belenzinho in Sao Paulo (2017), and “Lieux saints partages” at MuCEM in Marseille (2015).

Boyadgian’s dedication to his art extends to teaching. He has shared his knowledge and expertise through teaching engagements at various institutions, including the International Art Academy in Birzeit, Dar el Kalima in Bethlehem, and Konstfak in Stockholm. He participated in residencies such as Villa Romana in Florence and the International Artist Residency Program at Istanbul Modern. Benji Boyadgian lives and works in Bethlehem.

: Benji Boyadgian, Disoriented Disposition I (2020), watercolor and pencil on paper, 80 x 80 cm

: Benji Boyadgian, Disoriented Disposition II (2020), watercolor and pencil on paper, 80 x 80 cm

: Benji Boyadgian, Untitled (2020), watercolor and pencil on paper, 37 x 42 cm

: Benji Boyadgian, Untitled (2018), watercolor and pencil on paper, 80 x 80 cm

Ayman Essa

/ ARTISTS EXHIBITED / Artist, Ayman Essa, Palestinian Artist /

Osama Said

Ayman Essa was born in Gaza City in 1974. He completed his BA in Fine Arts at Al-Najah National University in Nablus in 1999. In 2011, he earned an MA degree in Fine Arts from the University of Helwan in Egypt. In 2014, he was granted an art residency at the International City of Arts in Paris.

Throughout his career, Essa has showcased his work in numerous solo exhibitions, including “Mysticism of Blues” at Ro’aa Gallery in Amman (2016), “Body” at Gallery One in Ramallah (2014), “Dlaleh” at Al Mahatta Gallery in Ramallah (2009), and “Dullness” at the A M Qattan Foundation in Ramallah (2005). He has also actively participated in group exhibitions both in Palestine and abroad.

Some notable group exhibitions featuring Essa’s work include “Cultural Narratives” at Alserkal Avenue in Dubai (2018), “Postcards for Jerusalem” at The Palestinian Art Court Al Hoash in Jerusalem (2017), “Imago Mundi – Mediterranean Routes” at ZAC, Zisa Zona Arti Contemporanee in Palermo, and the International Art Exhibition GENTES in Malta (2012). He has also participated in the Rome Biennale for Young Artists in Italy (1999), a traveling exhibition of ten artists from Gaza in France (2005), “10 Art” at Shababeek in Gaza (2010), “Art from Palestine” in the UK (2006), an exhibition in Tokyo (2006), and an exhibition at Galerie Lacadi, Karajac, in France (2009), among others.

Ayman Essa’s artistic journey has been marked by his unique expression and exploration of various themes, with a particular focus on portraits of elegant women adorned with blue hues. Through his work, Essa captures the mysticism and allure of the feminine form, infusing his paintings with a sense of enchantment and introspection.

: Ayman Essa, Pose #1 (2022), oil on canvas, 88 x 74 cm

: Ayman Essa, Pose #2 (2022), oil on canvas, 92 x 73 cm

: Ayman Essa, Pose #3 (2022), oil on canvas, 160 x 122 cm

: Ayman Essa, Pose #4 (2022), oil on canvas, 92 x 74 cm