As we get closer to the opening of Chapter 1NE - a group show at Het Hem, curated by Patta founders Edson & Guillaume - we will be presenting a few of the participating artists. Kicking off this series of interviews: multidisciplinary artist and longtime Patta affiliate Farida Sedoc.
As a quick introduction to our readers, who are you and how would you describe your art?
I'm Farida Sedoc: a visual artist based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. I work in diverse mediums such as screen printing, graphic design, patchwork, fashion & textile to create multi-layered narratives and site-specific works.
How did your relationship with art begin?
Ehm, roughly 15 years ago I started my independent practice. I was mainly printing T-shirts, sweaters and fabrics. The prints were actually all very politically charged without me being very aware of this. I was just young and had a lot of rage in me and through screen printing and graphic design, I could express myself through streetwear.
How would you place your art in our current social landscape?
WTF with all these difficult questions? Haha I dunno man, maybe that's not for me to answer as the artist but to the public who gets to see and experience it.
What do you feel an artist needs to add on a cultural level?
A point of view? And maybe a necessity to share a story that lives inside you and must come out!
What messages are you trying to convey to your audience through your art?
My work is closely connected to the ideology of street culture and hip hop, meeting points for the city, its citizens and the interrogation of identity. Exploring and questioning contemporary cultural identity and the influence of monetary policy, heritage and politics on the future of globalism.
How do you intend for viewers to interact with your work?
Freely.
How do you relate to the motto of the exhibition “Can’t be greedy.. You gotta take some, and leave some?”
I relate to the motto through the guys. They are fierce businessmen, but at the same time manage to create a community where there is a place for all who see fit and keep nurturing this.
What was the inspiration for your piece, included in the show at Het Hem?
The People’s Voice refers to “The Black CNN”, celebrating the political nature of rap and the struggle for social justice. Tracing the cultural roots and legacy of black music, and revolutionary movements by using iconic images in a historical and contemporary context. The works make use of magazines, newspapers, and print ephemera and reference rebellion of enslavement and hopes for freedom. Informing people, connecting people, and being a direct source of inspiration creating a new narrative.
What advice would you give to young artists who would like to get their work in galleries?
Well, I'm not represented by a gallery so I'm the last person to give advice about this. I have thoughts about it, like maybe it is an old structure that doesn't work anymore as a starting point but more as a last stop when you already have your own base of possible buyers. Or, agree to do 1 show at a gallery so together you can see if it's profitable at that moment.
Could you share the names of some artists whose work you are enjoying at the moment?
In the arts, I like the classics so not very exciting to name. I listen to a lot of music so I now I'm into BbyMutha, Teyana Taylor and been listening to a lot of Gangstarr again.
What is the hardest part of being an artist? What part is the most rewarding?
Making a living out of it I guess and keeping your integrity at the same time. When people think your shit is dope.
Farida Sedoc's work The People's Voice is on view in Chapter 1NE from June 21st till September 1st. More info here.
