BALTIMORE, MD Aug 25th – Sep 17 Erhan Us’ introspective exhibition ‘Trigger Warning’, is an unrivaled experience which unveils the Intricate Interplay between thought, belief, and moral systems. ‘Trigger Warning’ is the inaugural exhibition at the newly reopened Night Owl Gallery at 1735 Maryland Ave, in the heart of the Station North Arts District. The reception for the show is September 7, 2023 from 5pm – 8pm.
Embark on a captivating journey of self–reflection and contemplation at the much anticipated exhibition, ‘Trigger Warning’, where the complex relationship between thought, belief, and moral systems takes center stage. Challenging conventional notions of criticism, freedom of speech, and the elusive “ideal language”; the exhibition created by Turkish artist and author Erhan Us explores the idea that”…every thought, no matter how innocuous it seems, is either offensive or disturbing for an opposing belief or moral framework.” ‘Trigger Warning’ posits that the ‘respectful’ stance to any belief system is nothing but a reconstruction of a new ‘Inquisition Europe’…” How free are we?
Hailing from Ankara, Turkey’s capital city, and born in 1987, Us stands as a pioneering figure in the realm of conceptual art in Turkey and is emerging as a force to be reckoned with in the West. Us’ protest/atheist artworks and books contain criminal elements in more than 20 (under autocratic rule) countries. With artworks showcased in over 140 exhibitions across 26 countries, including 14 solo exhibitions, Us’ creative footprint spans the globe. Us holds three degrees in Philosophy, TH Management and Sociology from prestigious institutions such as Bilkent, Istanbul, and Anadolu Universities, lectures at the Eastern Mediterranean University and continues his multidisciplinary art studies at MICA as an MFA candidate at the Mount Royal School of Art.
‘Trigger Warning’ is a timely and thought–provoking exploration that challenges visitors to embrace discomfort, engage with differing viewpoints, and ultimately emerge with an enriched appreciation for the complexities inherent in human thought. Join us in this immersive experience, as we navigate the delicate dance between expression, belief, and the dynamic interplay of ideas, guided by the profound insights of Erhan Us, during the opening of Night Owl Gallery’s new space in Station North.
‘Trigger Warning’ is on view from Aug 25th – Sep 17
Reception is Thursday, September 7 from 5pm – 8pm
ARTIST STATEMENT
As an introspective exploration of the complex interplay between thoughts, beliefs, and moral systems; Trigger Warning explores the purgatory among criticism, freedom of speech and the ‘ideal’ language. In a world that anthropologists estimate 3000~18000 beliefs and uncountable ethical systems have been created by humans; every thought, no matter how innocuous it seems, is either offensive or disturbing for an opposing belief or moral framework. In this context, the ‘respectful’ stance to any belief system is nothing but a reconstruction of a new ‘Inquisition Europe’.
As we navigate this ever–evolving landscape of sensitivities, tolerance culture’s need to be replaced with any suggested correctness trend prompts a mind to recognize the nuanced nature of our intellectual landscape, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate tapestry of human ideas and convictions.
artist instagram: @erhanus
About Night Owl Gallery
Founded in 2016 by artist Beth-Ann Wilson, Night Owl Gallery hosts solo and group exhibitions, workshops, performances, and pop-up shops. Night Owl Gallery has recently expanded to include private art studios ranging in size from 150 sq ft to 200 sq ft. Previously located in Highlandtown, Night Owl Gallery reopened at a new Station North location above The Royal Blue on the 2nd and 3rd floors of 1735 Maryland Avenue in August 2023. The Station North expansion has been made possible by grants from Central Baltimore Partnership, Baltimore Development Corp, and BGE.
Follow Night Owl Gallery on instagram @night_owl_gallery and visit their website at www.night-owl-gallery.com.
Inquiries: beth-ann@night-owl-gallery.com
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