By examining the discourse within architecture of the representation and experiences of black communities amidst human displacement, Ismail was intrigued by how architectural structures like the traditional nomadic hut serve as tangible expressions of resilience.
From these observations, the Somali artist embarked on creating Aqal Somali, a traditional Somali hut crafted from plastic plumbing pipes, wrapped in rice paper, dipped in bees wax and frankincense resin. Modern uses of these structures in Somalia are now mostly constructed out of found plastic bags and have emerged out of necessity due to large areas facing drought-induced shrinkage and repercussions of conflict.
Ismail invites audiences to listen; “During the Somali civil war in 1988, my parents communicated by cassette tapes that served as the sole means of communication while they were separated by conflict and living in different continents. This structure for Refugee Week will house some of these recordings and aims to safeguard and conserve a diminishing cultural practice and its native language.
Ismail says “Aqal Somali signifies the fragility of human existence, I seek to preserve and protect female black architectural heritage and have combined the traditional with the modern displaced landscapes of the sound they contain, linking to Somalia’s linguistic legacy and spiritual burning of frankincense. I invite viewers to contemplate the delicate connections between memory, place, and identity. Much like the traditional Somali huts themselves, which rise and fall in harmony with the rhythms of nomads, I hope this sculpture is a testament to their ever-shifting tapestry. “
Visit Aqal Somali exhibited in the ground floor foyer at HOME until Wed 25 Jun.
This project is exhibited at HOME for Horizons Festival. Horizons Festival 2024 runs at HOME Fri 21 June – Sun 23 Jun, during national UK Refugee Week. To see the full Horizons Festival programme, visit homemcr.org.