This is one of my favourite satellite art events over Art Week/Month in Hong Kong. The trip to Quarry Bay to see Sara Shakeel’s Jewel System is absolutely worth your while! I’ve been following her work for a while now on Instagram and being able to see the physical manifestation of her thoughts and ideas coming to live was amazing – AI can never capture the way the crystals capture the light and reflections the same way, but it did pave the way for the idea to come to fruition! In this case, AI hasn’t taken over the work, but served its purpose to enhance it!
Sara Shakeel, a London-based South Asian artist of Pakistani descent has woven heritage, history, culture, folklore and mythology in this solar system of jewels. Working with over 80 artisans in Pakistan who have meticulously woven and embroidered the crystals and textiles together – all materials have been ethically sourced, with over 3.9 million pieces of coloured crystals sewn and woven onto the surface of each planet. The giant glittering spheres suspended from the ceiling slowly rotates, catching the light and showcasing the artistry of the textiles and interwoven crystals, rich with symbolism tied to folklore and classic Greek mythology.
Sara Shakeel: where AI and traditional Artistry Meets
An idea that came to life, “A Universe where each planet shimmered with crystals and wonder”.
“With the help of AI.. just like any brush or chisel.. I was able to bring that vision to a digtal canvas. From there, my own hands, alongside 80 incredible artisans, worked tirelessly to breathe life into it. It was a true collaboration between mind, machine and heart.”
Sara Shakeel
The beauty of Shakeel’s art works transcends the traditional boundaries of mediums; “it fuels a conversation of innovation, culture, and connectivity in shared humanity, merging traditional craftmanship with a unique contemporary touch to forge a dialogue between the past and the ever-evolving present.”
The references to folklore and classic mythologies are deep and I suppose open to interpretation. My favourite was planet Mercury with the Rod of Asclepius and jewelled slippers, alongside roman sandals – who doesn’t like jewelled slippers?!
