Tarab

installation view

2013/color/no sound

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Tarab is an Arabic concept which has no direct English translation, but essentially represents the musically induced state of ecstasy transmitted by a performer to the audience through the syntax of music.

The piece focuses on the distinct physical and emotional characteristics of Tarab by isolating its physical manifestation from its original context, including the music itself.

With an intent focus on the facial expressions of the performers, Tarab provides this intimate emotional state with a publicly excessive and overwhelming presence, providing the viewer with the feeling that they are intruding into someone’s private psychological space.

What remains is a visual diary of an array of emotions expressed through facial expressions including excitement, pain, exaltation, yearning, loss, timelessness, elation, and rapturous delight.

 

Tarab was published on Ajam Media Collective. Click here for the article.