Axel Ahlsén

-In what way is ART a tool for activism?

Growing up in a liberal country, it's hard for me to rate the importance of art as a tool for activism. Still, I think it's great because it's so hard to control.

A specific word or sentence can easily be forbidden by a regime. Every piece of art on the other hand, is a new thing, that hasn't been defined, and things that are without definition are much harder to forbid. Take for example my picture here. It's just four copies of a sunset. Who will ban that? But perhaps you instead are seeing a symbol, "because something is happening here", inside your brain.

- In what way does your chosen piece for HRW reflect 2020?

During the last decades the world has became more and more connected. Countries and their borders had almost became some sort of curiosities. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, and suddenly almost every leader closed their country's borders.

- What gives you hope?

I find hope, especially in technology. In less than a year, humanity has developed a vaccine against COVID-19 and started to use it. In a more personal way, computers are a fantastic tool for me, who has difficulties using my hand. Thanks to these machines I can create pictures. I can't even hold a camera properly enough to take a sharp photo, nevertheless I got the opportunity to show a picture in this company. Yet I don't see any limit for technical development and that gives me hope.

BIO

Axel Ahlsén is best known for a technique he has developed based on his background in physics and his acquaintance with mathematics. The tool - when combined with Photoshop has proven to result in interesting ways of playing with concepts of symmetry and asymmetry. In Ahlséns universe - the original photograph is one of many elements in the creative process. Geometry based on mathematical relations provides Ahlsén options to make precise ensembles while still leaving room for the viewer’s imagination. As he states it: I guess my central theme is about building upon what you already have, be it culture, science, or history. Ahlsén works primarily with photography as a medium, as he explores ways of presenting his work in innovative site-specific installations such as multi-media projections on straw bales in the countryside of Sweden, or a single framed photograph presented within a massive frame on a desert.

Axel Ahlsen was recommended to 20 21 Artist in Support of Human Rights Watch by Jacob Felländer.

www.axelahlsen.com Instagram: @axelahlsen

100% of the proceeds to benefit Human Rights Watch.

This artwork is located in Stockholm, Sweden, WILLAS contemporary will facilitate artwork release within 21 days after payment. Can be picked up by the buyer or shipped at the buyer´s expense.