Anand Zenz – Is Is Not Not?

The latest exhibition at Fred [London] Ltd is a collection of works by Anand Zenz – the philosophical artist based in London and Berlin. This new exhibition includes a variety of illuminated and mirrored pieces, all of which pose ontological questions. 

In Emergence from Self-Referential Noise (2012), viewers find themselves caught between two panels of tinted glass, which echo an infinity mirror, emblazoned with the statements “Empathy is the beautiful presumption/Altruism exists because I want it to”.  The piece leaves the viewer trapped by both the physical restrictions of the space and their own understanding of the text and what it means to be a member of the human race, providing them with a place to consider the values and beliefs that they hold. 

Another piece, 4 Minute Love Story (2012), is a constantly changing set of sentences projected onto glass about insecurities – some sad, others humorous, but all poignant. With statements such as “My insecurities could be resolved but remain perversely treasured” written across the viewer’s reflection, it is questionable to whom these insecurities belong – the artist? Or everyone? 

The only piece with no visible text is the projected film from which the exhibition takes its name. Is Is Not Not? (2012) shows a silhouette of the artist from three vantage points, as he stands on the spot speaking animatedly. The piece has no sound and from his body language and gesticulations it is hard to distinguish whether he is expressing himself with excitement or anger. 

The pieces are visually simple yet conceptually strong, perhaps because, as Relief (2012) explains, “Decoration only ever smothers the beauty of the inherent”.

The exhibition provides a stimulating environment for contemplation and can be recommended to those interested in contemporary art and philosophy.

Verdict: ••••

Melanie Weaver

Anand Zenz: Is Is Not Not? is at Fred [London] Ltd until 13^th April 2013. For further information click here.