Infinity Pattern 1 marks a threefold union of Brummie influences after being selected from an international shortlist by Birmingham’s contemporary art destination Ikon Gallery, artist Osman Yousefzada’s work now covers the Selfridges department store, one of the city centre’s landmark buildings.
The work is Yousefzada’s first piece of public art since his move from fashion designer – with his pieces being worn by Beyoncé, Lady Gaga and Taylor Swift – to multidisciplinary artist. The piece represents for him “a happier narrative, a story of endless possibilities, social mobility, and a dialogue between the global south and the global north.”
Jonathan Watkins, Ikon Gallery’s director, said that “We wanted it to ring out from afar. The fact that Osman comes from Birmingham, but is so cosmopolitan and such a Renaissance man, it’s wonderful that he was the one who won.” Yousefzada previously worked with the Ikon Gallery for his first solo exhibition Being Something Else in 2018, which explored the links between fashion and migration. The artist is currently undertaking a residency at Birmingham City University.
Accompanying the external installation of Infinity Pattern 1 is an exclusive collection of products for Selfridges customers featuring the tessellated pattern. From 19-22 August Selfridges will host the Ikon Gallery’s Migrant Festival which will feature live performances, textile workshops and a discussion with Yousefzada.
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