Against Classification or: My Mother Sees a Salad in Every Field

Gal Leshem

BornNationalityBased In
1988IsraeliLondon
Biography

Gal Leshem’s work intertwines textiles, video, print, and ceramics to explore themes of identity, migration, and collective memory. Drawing from her background in art and philosophy, she employs a research-based, site-specific approach, often engaging with heritage sites, objects, and plants embedded in myth, memory, and folklore. Her practice delves into the histories and cultural significance of materials, such as the plant Rubia Tinctorum, examining their roles in shaping narratives and identities across different cultures and time periods. Through her installations and artworks, Leshem invites viewers to reconsider the intersections of personal and collective histories, highlighting the complexities of cultural exchange and transformation. Beyond her studio work, Leshem is committed to socially engaged art practices. She has facilitated and developed artistic projects, seminars, workshops, and exhibitions in various community settings, particularly in peripheral areas of Israel. This experience has informed her approach to art-making, emphasizing collaboration and community involvement. Leshem's work reflects a deep engagement with the histories and identities of the communities she works with, using art as a tool for dialogue and understanding. Her practice continues to bridge personal narratives with broader cultural histories, fostering connections and conversations through her multifaceted approach. ...