Abstract
The title Pillars of Industry references, on the one hand, Basilicata’s historical prominence, bearing witness to Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Norman civilizations, amongst many others. On the other hand, it alludes to ILVA, Italy’s largest and most pollutive steel plant. Located in the nearby city of Taranto, the factory accounts for a large portion of Italy’s steel production. The exhibition presents five new photographic still lifes that address ILVA’s impact on the territory. Soleimani’s engagement with social identities and systems of oppression is an ongoing theme in her practice. Juxtaposing images of the steel plant to Basilicata’s food exports and historical treasures, including ancient Greek ruins like the Tavole Palatine, Soleimani’s work melds sculpture, collage and photography to bring to light her critical perspectives on historical and contemporary socio-political events.