10.01.–02.02.2025
Opening/Avajaiset 9th of January 18.00 – 20.00

“Thousand Island: Insularity, Computation, and the Pink Paradox.” is an art exhibition created in memory of Debra, exploring themes of migration, identity, and the delicate nature of the human condition. The work contrasts everyday comforts, symbolised by McDonald’s pink “Secret Sauce,” with the harsh realities faced by individuals displaced by conflict. This opposition is further emphasised through references to the Big Mac Index, which demonstrates global economic disparities that often drive migration.

The exhibition utilises computational aesthetics and analogue aerial photography to portray the sea as both a barrier and a bridge, representing the duality of separation and connection experienced by migrants. By using camouflage colours inspired by military aesthetics, the artwork highlights the ongoing struggle for visibility and assimilation faced by refugees. Features such as the Ishihara pattern metaphorically address societal blindness towards marginalised groups. The fragmented, island-like circles in the artwork, combined with the expansive black background, evoke a sense of isolation and interconnectedness, symbolising both refuge and the perilous journeys migrants undertake.

“Thousand Island” also incorporates advanced technologies like Processing software and artificial intelligence to create dynamic, fragmented island formations, symbolising both refuge and the perilous journeys migrants undertake. The piece draws inspiration from historical events such as the tragic 2013 shipwreck near Lampedusa, emphasising the human cost of migration driven by economic and armed conflicts.

Philosophically influenced by Howard Zinn’s ideas on transcendence, the exhibition challenges prevailing narratives and encourages viewers to envisage new possibilities beyond established illusions. Ultimately, “Thousand Island” serves as a profound inquiry into global issues, fostering dialogue on resilience, empathy, and the interconnectedness of all lives, while honouring those lost at sea.

Moe Louanjli is a Moroccan-Australian interdisciplinary artist, designer, and educator based in Helsinki. Growing up in Casablanca and Paris, he spent much of his time drawing and taking photos. In his twenties, he moved to Australia. Louanjli holds a PhD in Art (Computing Aesthetics) from Queensland College of Art and Design, Griffith University, and an MFA from the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, with a concentration in Print and Photography and a minor in Sound.

Louanjli’s interdisciplinary practice spans code, photography, print, sound, and creative writing. His work draws heavily on the digital universe, microtonal music, and his cultural identity. The serendipity of algorithmic art lies at the core of his creative process, while his background questions status quo narratives and perspectives. His visual language is informed by research on the impact of digital technologies, microprocessors, speed, aerial imagery, and war on the human condition.

Louanjli’s journey includes roles as an art director and lecturer, and his artwork is featured in both private and public collections. He is currently expanding his practice through research into microtonal music and AI aesthetics, while contributing to educational projects in Finland

Moe Louanjli’s first exhibition in Finland
Exhibition curated by Ramiro Camelo

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