Amela Rasi

The work of Amela Rasi is stimulated by human interactions and relationships. In her works she observes and explores interpersonal relationships. The focus of her current work is based on the free and unleashed behaviour and interaction between two individuals.

The visually simple and abstract works show two, recurring similar forms that touch each other only fleetingly, as if in passing. Amela captures and visualizes the body dynamics, or movement gesture, that occurs spontaneously and uncontrollably between two people, in a moment dominated by strong emotions. For Amela this is the most honest and pure way of communication possible between two people. The body forms are depicted in a most reduced shape and against the background of a prominent emotion, they are reflecting expressions such as affection, oppression, restraint, attraction, love, devotion and ignorance.

A striking characteristic of the paintings is the process of their creation. Each form, or identity, emerges and develops independently on a separate canvas. In the next step, Amela brings the figures together by sewing the canvases together. The creation of the work itself symbolically reflects the development of an individual, as well as the moment of connection with another individual.

The works appear light, dancing and yet self-confident. Their abstract character is underlined by a poetic content. By choosing vibrant colours that don't seem to go together at first glance and different types of canvases, she underscores the differences in each identity. Amela uses acrylic paints, pigments, oil colour and oil sticks and applies them vigorously in many thin layers with different brushes.