Drawing inspiration from six of his father’s unpublished writings, Mohamad Abdouni embarks on an intimate journey, weaving together their shared fears in his latest work. Barren Seeds delves into the universal themes of isolation, the pursuit of love, and the elusive quest for belonging, all while reflecting on the inevitable solitude that shapes human existence.

Kamel Abdouni (born in 1956) began writing in his early thirties and has kept his works unpublished, deeming them too personal. Upon reading these intimate texts, Mohamad persuaded his father to lend six of them as the groundwork for this exhibition. The result is a dialogue between father and son, where their distinct approaches to life’s uncertainties come together—sometimes with playful satire, and at other times, offering insightful reflections on past wounds.

Despite a close bond, Mohamad has long felt a subtle disconnect with his father, a gap he attributes to generational and cultural differences. Through these uncovered writings, Abdouni discovers an unexpected kinship in their shared search for identity and belonging, leading to an emotional reconciliation through their shared expression, and a newfound understanding of one another.

The artist would like to thank Christina Abou Char for her valuable support.