Jens Haaning

Lives and works in Copenhagen (Denmark).

In its form, and through the scale used, Ma'lesh resembles bygone advertising wall paintings, or company signs. Ma'lesh means “too bad”, “it doesn't matter” or “so what”, an originally Egyptian expression which can be used to say “sorry”, while also having undertones of bitterness. As always in Haaning's work, the message being delivered remains indecisive, in suspense. The wall painting refers the onlooker to the idea he makes for himself of this notion, and to personal associations. Does the word say something, convey a precise idea, or is it just a projection surface?
 

Jens Haaning has taken part in lots of exhibitions all over the world and in particular the 11th Documenta in Kassel, and the Sydney Biennial. A solo show of his work was held in early 2007 at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Villeurbanne.