Last month, Alina & Jeff Bliumis wrapped up Casual Conversations in Brooklyn, their “anthropological inquiry into Brooklyn’s immigrant communities,” which was met with critical acclaim.
Be Happy! (2009), Site-Specific Installation, Astroturf
Casual Conversations described the culture shock experienced by immigrants facing new social realities, and the desire to recreate one’s self in a new environment while maintaining a past cultural identity.
Outside of the gallery, the two formerly-Soviet artists erect Language Barriers (pictured at right) in public spaces to realize the impediments so common to the immigrant experience. The sites are chosen for their historical import, and the temporary walls constructed from artist-made foam dictionaries that poke fun at American perceptions of immigrants.
Most recently, Alina & Jeff Bliumis participated in the No Longer Empty group show at the Chelsea Hotel, still viewable online, and the duo was added to rebel:art’s watchlist.
Detail from Cultural Tips For New Americans #7 (2009), Foam Dictionary
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