Rashad Alakbarov

Rashad Alakbarov builds structures from everyday objects that, when lit from a specific angle, cast shadows of landscapes, portraits, patterns, and words. Built from common materials such as wood, metal, glass, and general detritus, Alakbarov’s works exist only when illuminated and viewed from a particular vantage point, causing viewers to question their perception of reality. Addressing childhood memories, Middle Eastern linguistic history, societal expectations, and gender roles, the artist evokes nostalgia while also critiquing widely accepted beliefs and cultural standards. Many of Alakbarov’s works—particularly text-driven pieces such as Do Not Fear (2015) and This is Not Chaos (2015)—project clear messages from seemingly chaotic assemblages, confronting the relationship between sign and meaning.