Morgan Abenhaim

Canadian artist Morgan Abenhaim ( b.1989, Toronto) conceptually explores ideas around identity and connection as an instrument for self discovery, and what it means to exist in the liminal space of being. Her works depart from traditional portraiture narrowing in on the irises of friends, family, and lovers as subjects. Their lessons and shared experiences act as both a vehicle and a mirror to observe, speculate, reflect and analyze the invisibilia of day to day life. The human iris contains over two hundred identification points within the grooves and ridges of its pattern, which has been found to be a more accurate identification resource than both fingerprints and dental imprints. Abenhaim's work focuses on the use of materials such as wood, resin and paint to further explore these concepts in an expanded and abstracted way. By eliminating the physiological markers, societal ideations and constructs traditionally used as the scaffolding to curate a sense of identity, Abenhaim strips that context from her subjects so that only the intimacy of the gaze remains. Her works are rendered in a vibrant palette, with paint suspended- seemingly- floating, layered in resin that’s been molded into freeform structures. Playing with light, transparency, space and form as an attempt to give shape to the otherwise intangible and bring awareness to the inseparable entanglement that exists; Oscillating between knowing and not knowing, creating and collapsing while consistently existing on the precipice of being. A pivotal project, "Organic Encounters," exhibited at OUR Gallery in Toronto in 2017, marked the catalyst of this ongoing series. These pieces showcased the first renditions of this introspective and explorative work. Since then Abenhaim’s artistic journey has been punctuated by several exhibitions and participation in the contemporary art scene. Showcasing at venues such as NYA Gallery during Armory Week in New York City, The Spoke Club, STACKT Market and Northern Contemporary in Toronto, Canada.