Description: Face It is a visual representation reflecting the continuous conflict between Christians and Muslims. Macedonian artist Igor Josifov, presents a multi-media exhibition – performance art, video and photography, expressing the history of the conflict between Christians and Muslims that has existed in this region for centuries.
The artist's performance was staged between the two iconic photographs where the subjects are wearing 'horse blinders' which have now become 'human blinders'. Each leather blinder, has been etched and burned with Christian iconography and Muslim motifs separately
"In the beginning of my performance I use the head as the primary medium for demonstrating a certain emotion. In the first part I wear the Christian mask and put myself into the state of mind that would reflect a Christian point of view and ideology. After that I wear the Muslim mask with the same mental transformation. I use the energy projected by the audience, absorbing their anxiety, confusion and restlessness . It's a thick and heavy atmosphere as is the subject of religious differences. The performance merges this all together into one larger energy….
people are now forced to think. I remove the mask and then turn my back and cut the shoulder blades on my back with a razor blade. It is my desire to become neutral….to be in between religions as I stand between the iconic photographs.
The incisions cause blood to drip in almost a wing-like nature. The performance begins to feel almost messianic in its message. They have a metaphoric meaning of freedom from both religions.
In fact from all religions."
