Slavs and Tatars is an art collective founded in 2006 known for its multidisciplinary approach, which includes visual art, installations, performances, and publications. The group focuses on the cultural, social, and political issues of the Eurasian region, specifically the area east of the former Berlin Wall and west of the Great Wall of China. Their work explores the intersections of language, politics, and identity, often highlighting lesser-known histories and narratives.
Slavs and Tatars was founded by Payam Sharifi and his collaborator, who prefer to keep the collective's membership fluid and dynamic. The collective operates on the principle of shared authorship, with contributors coming from various backgrounds, including art, academia, and activism. The members have roots in diverse regions, which enriches their exploration of cross-cultural themes.
The collective's work is characterized by its playful yet critical engagement with serious topics. They often use humor and satire to address complex issues related to cultural identity, language politics, and the legacy of Soviet influence in Eurasia. Their projects frequently draw on historical texts, religious traditions, and popular culture, blending them into contemporary art practices.
Notable Works and Exhibitions
1. Kidnapping Mountains" (2009): This project examines the cultural and political significance of the Caucasus region, incorporating installations, lectures, and publications.
2. Molla Nasreddin: The Magazine That Would've, Could've, Should've" (2011): A research project and publication based on the early 20th-century satirical magazine from Azerbaijan, highlighting its relevance to contemporary issues.
3. Friendship of Nations: Polish Shi'ite Showbiz" (2011): A series of installations and performances exploring the unlikely connections between Poland and Iran, particularly through the lens of shared struggles and solidarity movements.
4. Long Legged Linguistics" (2012): This project delves into the politics of language, focusing on the phonetic and script changes in the Turkic languages of the former Soviet Union.
Slavs and Tatars place a significant emphasis on publications, viewing them as a critical part of their practice. Their books often accompany exhibitions and provide a deeper exploration of the themes addressed in their visual works. Some notable publications include:
- Kidnapping Mountains" (2009)
- Love Me, Love Me Not: Changed Names" (2010)
- Not Moscow Not Mecca" (2012)
- Wripped Scripped" (2018)
The collective has exhibited in major international venues, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Venice Biennale, and the Tate Modern in London. Their work has been widely praised for its innovative approach to bridging Eastern and Western cultural narratives and its ability to engage audiences with thought-provoking and accessible art.