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Tahmina is a painter. Born in Uzbekistan, her large-scale work depicts topics of intergenerational migration and abandonment through tactility and texture, built into panoramic landscapes.

Tahmina's research explores themes related to immigration, intergenerational trauma, and the complex interplay of political, and cultural aspirations in the context of abandonment. These themes, whether stemming from parental neglect, governmental policies, or even the loss of hope itself, form the core of her research. By examining the human experience within cultural biases, her work draws connections between how immigrants are perceived in the West and the concept of the Uncanny Valley. This exploration raises questions about how society's biases impact human experiences and identities.

Her practice merges painting with ceramics, and integrating historical contexts. She utilises materials like felt and furs sourced from the Soviet era, fostering a tactile engagement that underscores her thematic explorations and signifies the state of being lost in the dark. 

Topics of occultism, mysticism, and demonology appear throughout her expansive landscapes, reflecting the uncertain nature of our times. The paintings incorporate disparate symbols to convey a sense of confusion in personal and ideological contexts, while also addressing the global fall of empires.

Over the next two years, her focus will delve into topics including the Bolshevik victory vis-à-vis the Decembrists' failure, and the ideological betrayals surrounding the October Revolution, through figures like Vladimir Mayakovsky.

Key details

School, Centre or Area

Gallery

More information

  • Developing Your Creative Practice Grant (DYCP), the Arts Council England, London (2021–22)
  • Art Business Accelerator Fund, Artwork Archive, Denver (2021)
  • Valerie Beston Artists’ Trust (additional fund for a site-specific project ‘Cluster-Phobia’), London (2021)
  • New Unity Grant for a site-specific project ‘Cluster-Phobia’, Newington Green Meeting House, London (2021)
  • Freelands Foundation Grant, London (2020)
  • Exceptional Talent Visa Endorsement, the Arts Council England, London (2018–23)

  • Barry Thompson Memorial Award, ACME, London (2023–24)
  • Valerie Beston Artists’ Trust Award, Marlborough Gallery, London (2018–19)

Solo exhibitions

(2024) Portraits. Calcio. London.

(2022) Ruin Value. Massimo De Carlo. VSpace.

(2020) Moscow-Petushki. Althuis Hofland Fine Arts. Amsterdam.

(2019) Eyebrows with Teeth. Marlborough Gallery. London.