ISTANBUL.- Pi Artworks Istanbul is presenting Life is so Beautiful!, a solo exhibition by Mehmet Ali Uysal showcasing mixed media sculptures that explore the fragility and imperfection of life. Uysal’s diverse selection of materials, such as polyester, glass, car tiles and rocks, both complement and contradict the concept.

Uysal’s installations are renowned for their ability to challenge space while revealing imperfections hidden beneath the surface. He often creates site-specific installations that engage with the space and material at hand. In this exhibition, he takes a different approach by directing his attention to the inherent flaws within life itself. That said, he draws inspiration from personal experiences and unites several distinct series with unique purposes, harmoniously creating new layers of meaning.

Life is so Beautiful!, revolves around the illusion that life remains beautiful despite everything. Uysal’s questions resonate throughout the exhibition, providing space for viewers to connect with their own past, present, and future. “If all negative conditions were eliminated, what would make life worth living? How much does the absence of suffering help us to increase our awareness? Is the absence of suffering enough for individuals and communities to thrive?”

All in all, Uysal doesn’t attempt to solve life’s problems nor fix its imperfections. He shapes abstract problems into concrete sculptures. He does not convey a clear message nor claim that life is ugly. He merely points out the illusion of the beautiful life and leaves the rest for viewers’ interpretation. As Edgar Degas said, “Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.”.

Mehmet Ali Uysal b.1976 (Mersin, Turkey) currently lives and works in Paris.