Split Canvas Paintings — A Two Artists Saga.
Split Canvas Paintings —- A Two Artists Saga (by Aytun Altindal)
In 1991 Aytun Altindal introduced “The Menorah” project to Zurich in his prestigious gallery Modus
Vivendi. The invitation carried the following text by Aytun:
They, two talented artists , met 2,5 years ago in Miami. “Your ancestors stole the Menorah” said Royi ,an
israeli Jew. Roberto , an Italian replied: ” OK let’s give it back.
This was the beginning of a 2,5 years all encompassing collaboration.
” How do you work on the same canvas ? “People often asked.
” We split the canvas in half and we work side by side on each half”. ” They answered. ” We fight, we
agree, disagree and agree.” They said.
” On what”?
” On the human condition and social issues in a changing world such as, homelessness, injustice, ecology,
racim, AIDS, child abuse.
“But why the Menorah of all things?”
“We believe we are in troubled Times now. Symbolically the Menorah reflects the concept of FOREVER
LIGHT.
Menorah is the symbol of “Kairos” The opportune and supreme moment.
The Jewish concept of “Survivalism” and the Christian concept of “Suffering” are the two aspects of the
collaboration of Royi and Roberto’s combined energies to recreate the content and the form of Menorah
Aytun Altindal
1991 Zurich Switzerland
Aytun Altindal, renowned Turco-Swiss writer, is famous for his opposition to oppressive military regimes
and his dedication to Human Rights issues and secularism.
