Reviving Tradition Through Modern Art: Esther Elia’s Cultural Exploits
In the heart of ancient Mesopotamia, lamassu figures took on the form of winged deities. These colossal representations, often seen in the Assyrian Empire as majestic bulls or lions adorned with human heads and wings, were crafted by artisans and served to protect cities and royal dwellings. For Albuquerque-based artist Esther Elia, whose heritage comprises both Assyrian and Irish roots, lamassu transcends mere history. Through her sculptures, paintings, and textiles, she vividly captures the contemporary Assyrian narrative, interweaving patterns, fashion, and personal storytelling.
Solo Exhibition: Bazaar Ashuraya
Elia’s latest solo exhibition, entitled Bazaar Ashuraya, is currently featured at Hecho a Mano. It showcases a new collection comprising acrylic paintings, tile mosaics, and functional art pieces. Central to Elia’s work is the exploration of the concept of home. Her pieces—ranging from lamps to garments—evoke the intricacies of daily life, portrayed through vibrant figures, geometric shapes, and objects. Works like “Sharrat Wearing Adidas” and “Esther and Zahra Wearing Farm Rio” cleverly blend contemporary fashion with traditional folk designs.
The Heartbeat of Assyrian Culture
Elia emphasizes the notion that “the home is where Assyria lives and breathes.” She articulates this by stating:
The home is where our language is spoken. Even if we speak English or Arabic or Farsi or French or Swedish outside of the home, the home is where Assyrian food is made, where Assyrian customs thrive, and where culture is maintained as well as created—pushed forward. As we mix with diaspora, our clothes, furnishings, and habits reflect the mixing with these new places.
Diverse Mediums and Techniques
Elia’s sculptures approach nearly life-size dimensions, constructed using Mexican tiles affixed to cement board and plywood. Each piece is equipped with wheels, allowing for mobility. Dubbed “diasporic deities,” these sculptures incorporate materials that are readily available in the Southwest, offering versatile adaptations to various environments.
Exhibition Details and Future Ventures
Bazaar Ashuraya will be on display from November 6 to 29 in Santa Fe. Recently, Elia was selected as a 2027 resident for the John Michael Kohler Art Center and Kohler Co.’s Arts/Industry program, enhancing her artistic journey further. For ongoing updates, Elia invites followers to connect with her work on Instagram.
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