Reza Aramesh's Marble Sculptures Confront Violence and Beauty in Venice

Reza Aramesh, an Iranian artist born in 1970 in southern Iran and now based in London, has dedicated the last two decades to merging the unsettling aspects of war journalism with Western artistic traditions. His latest exhibition, NUMBER 207, is organized by Serubiri Moses and backed by MUNTREF in Buenos Aires, as well as the Institute of Contemporary Art in Miami. It's taking place at San Fantin Church in Venice, close to the historic La Fenice opera house. The exhibit showcases 207 sculptures made from white marble, representing discarded men's underwear, which highlight how individuals become mere statistics while referencing crucifixion art in the church. Aramesh, who earned his MFA from Goldsmiths University in 1997, initially explored photography by placing conflict images in opulent settings. His work has been exhibited at various prestigious locations, and a new monograph has just been published. He believes his art critiques the ongoing cycle of conflict and the "hegemony of beauty in the service of power."