Sami Hayek is not easily impressed by superficial appearances. It's often the underlying essence that captivates the Mexican multidisciplinary artist and designer. Consider Frequency, his exhibition of artworks and evocative objects on display at Christie’s Middle East until November 14, which delves into a deeper philosophical concept of frequency. “If I give you a work of art and then an exact replica, why would you choose the original?” he questions. “The original has a unique vibration and frequency, embodying the creative energies of the artist. Consciously or unconsciously, we recognize this, which is why we prefer the original—we want a piece of the artist’s essence.”
Frequency posits that all objects, regardless of their apparent lifelessness, emit energy. This energy is what is transmitted. At Christie’s, some works demand direct engagement from the audience. Take Maya Frequency 2, crafted from iceberg blue marble, ceramic, and glazed volcanic rock. Far from being static, it symbolizes intangible movement. The overarching theme is to articulate how frequency resonates with us. For instance, 528 Hz is considered a frequency that fosters harmony, and many displayed objects embody this.
“Sound permeates our cells, affecting us at a cellular level. We may not consciously notice, but our bodies respond. 528 Hz harmonizes with our cellular memory, which is why it has been used in chants for centuries,” explains Sami, who is the brother of Hollywood star Salma Hayek. Sami didn’t initially set out to be an artist or designer. Reflecting on his journey, he notes his early inclinations toward engineering and business, but art and architecture became vehicles for promoting wellbeing. “While studying in Florence, I had an epiphanic moment. I noticed a congruence between Italian language and design. The culture responds to the rhythm of the language, making me wonder if an invisible force shapes these expressions, connecting various aspects of a culture. It was frequency.”
Sami views the world uniquely, like all artists. While artists articulate their ideas through art, when these ideas are embodied in objects meant for consumers, one wonders if the audience will grasp the nuances. Could the roles of artist and designer be at odds? “I find it easy to balance being an artist and a designer,” says Sami, based in Los Angeles. “Artists download information uniquely. Consider where thoughts originate. Why do we have different thoughts? It’s about frequency, what we tune into. Artists tap into shared spaces but process them differently, giving them unique forms. Designers do the same. Even if people don’t engage deeply with the objects, the piece will still leave an impression. Some may simply appreciate its beauty. If my art evokes a feeling, that’s enough for me. Ideally, engagement with art doesn’t require a conversation.”
A standout piece in the collection is The Dubai Credenza, an intricately designed cabinet resembling a hummingbird’s wings. Sami equates Dubai’s spirit with that of a hummingbird, moving at an extraordinary pace. Crafted with anodized aluminum and glass beads from Mexican artisans, it balances robustness and freedom. “The region operates uniquely—they conceive and achieve. The cabinet’s legs symbolize strong grounding, while the wings represent freedom, capturing Dubai’s essence.” Wing imagery recurs in many objects, reflecting Sami’s view of them as time’s inanimate witnesses. As he approaches a large wing-shaped table, he says, “I envision many joyful moments around this table. I have one at home; my kids play on it. I believe spaces hold intention, making them charming. You can’t replicate that. I want such objects to endure through generations.”
For someone working on monumental pieces, execution remains his biggest challenge. “Ideas flow constantly, but finding the right team for precision work is difficult. I’ve achieved some success. Some pieces feature beading from Mexico, wood from California, and other materials from various sources, requiring high coordination.” Sami has pursued the concept of frequency for years, with his creative process largely unchanged. “My goal remains to convey an idea or message through an object. Knowledge and skills have evolved, allowing me to work with more materials.”
Sami sees promise in the UAE for artists. “While the original plan was for Christie’s to exhibit here, interactions around my work have inspired me. The region is welcoming, with diverse people fostering great conversations and ideas.” Sami Hayek will converse with Earl of Snowdon tonight at Christie’s.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
