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DiaporamaFlying Machine
Sculpture- Sculpture
- Contemporary Art
2017- Contemporary
700.0 x 200.0 cm
Postman Cheval's Ideal Palace
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Giclée / Art Print
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Flying Machine
Giclée / Art Print
Reproduction Size
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Collectible Description
A Visionary Ascent: The Spirit of Flight in Ali Cherri’s Masterpiece
In the sweeping expanse of Flying Machine, Lebanese artist Ali Cherri invites us into a dreamscape where the boundaries between engineering and imagination dissolve. Created in 2017, this monumental work serves as a profound tribute to the pioneers of aviation, weaving together the historical legacies of Abbas Ibn Firnas, Leonardo da Vinci, and the Wright Brothers. The painting presents a large, intricate wooden structure that evokes the delicate anatomy of a dragonfly, suspended before a building crowned with a verdant green roof. This juxtaposition of heavy, grounded architecture with the skeletal, airy lightness of the machine creates a breathtaking tension, capturing that precise moment of human longing to transcend the earth.
The composition is far from a solitary study; it is a living, breathing scene populated by figures that ground the fantastical element in a sense of communal wonder. As people move through the landscape—some gathered near the building and others scattered across the terrain—the artwork takes on a playful, almost nostalgic atmosphere. The presence of these onlookers transforms the flying machine from a mere object of technology into a shared cultural event, a spectacle of hope that unites the observers in their collective gaze toward the sky. For the collector or interior designer, this piece offers a unique narrative depth, blending the whimsical charm of a playground with the intellectual weight of historical progress.
Symbolism and the Texture of Memory
Beyond its visual splendor, Flying Machine is a meditation on transformation and the preservation of memory. Ali Cherri, an artist renowned for documenting the cultural heritage of Lebanon, utilizes this piece to explore how innovation is rooted in our ancestral aspirations. The wooden textures of the machine suggest something organic and ancient, as if the dream of flight is an evolutionary impulse rather than a modern invention. The use of wood—a material that breathes and ages—symbolizes the fragility of these early scientific attempts and the enduring nature of human curiosity.
The emotional impact of the work lies in its ability to evoke a sense of "nostalgia for the future." It looks backward at the legends of flight while simultaneously pointing toward the infinite possibilities of what is yet to come. The subtle interplay of light across the wooden struts and the soft greenery of the roof creates a serene, contemplative mood that can anchor a sophisticated interior space. Whether placed in a grand gallery or as a focal point in a contemporary living room, this reproduction brings with it an aura of intellectual curiosity and a quiet, soaring elegance that inspires anyone who gazes upon its intricate details.
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Artist Biography
Ali Cherri: Documenting Lebanon Through Sculpture and Film
Ali Cherri is a Lebanese artist whose distinctive approach to contemporary art centers on meticulously documenting and presenting the cultural heritage and environment of Lebanon and broader Middle Eastern landscapes. His work transcends mere observation; it strives to capture essence, memory, and transformation—themes that resonate powerfully across his diverse mediums, primarily video installation and sculptural sculpture. Cherri’s artistic journey began in Beirut, where he honed his skills amidst a vibrant creative milieu shaped by the complexities of Lebanese history and identity. Early influences included explorations of architectural spaces and urban narratives, reflecting a fascination with how places embody stories of past and present. This initial focus laid the groundwork for his subsequent investigations into larger concepts – particularly the preservation of cultural heritage against forces of globalization and conflict. His sculptural practice is characterized by ambitious scale and symbolic resonance. The “Flying Machine,” a monumental dragonfly sculpture created in 2017, exemplifies Cherri’s commitment to conveying profound ideas through striking visual forms. Constructed from wood—a material deeply rooted in Lebanese tradition—the dragonfly represents metamorphosis, flight, and the delicate balance between stability and dynamism. It's not simply an aesthetically pleasing object; it functions as a tangible embodiment of Cherri’s artistic philosophy: confronting challenges head-on while acknowledging the importance of adapting to change. Cherri’s filmmaking endeavors further amplify his exploration of cultural narratives. He utilizes video installations to delve into sites of historical significance, such as ʻIolani Palace—the only official royal residence in the United States—where he meticulously captures the grandeur of Hawaiian monarchy history and the transformative impact of King Kalākaua & Queen Liliʻuokalani’s reign. These projects aren't merely recordings; they are carefully crafted dialogues between art and place, inviting viewers to contemplate legacies of power, resilience, and cultural evolution. His work has garnered recognition on international stages, including exhibitions at Guggenheim Museum in New York City and the Venice Biennale—a testament to his ability to articulate urgent concerns about environmental stewardship and cultural preservation through innovative artistic mediums. Cherri’s contribution to contemporary art lies in his unwavering dedication to confronting complex issues with sensitivity and imagination, ensuring that Lebanon's stories continue to inspire future generations.
Ali Cherri
1976 - , Lebanon
Quick Facts
- Artistic Movement Or Style: Video & Installation
- Date Of Birth: 1976
- Full Name: Ali Cherri
- Nationality: Lebanese
- Notable Artworks: ['Flying Machine']
- Place Of Birth: Beirut, Lebanon
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