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Marika Holm

 My work investigates the symbolism of Oriental carpets as metaphors for ideals of perfection in a relationship. Historically, these textiles carried a rich, multinational symbolic language, reflecting cultural identity and continuity. Their motifs and patterns were not merely decorative; they conveyed meaning, origin, and tradition. Over time, much of this original significance has been lost, yet the perception of harmony and refinement persists. 
In my paintings, the carpet becomes a visual and conceptual framework for exploring the tension between perfection and imperfection. While the traditional pattern suggests order and completeness whit some very small human false. I introduce elements that disrupt this harmony whit big broken forms. 
 Authentic carpets are unique in color and design, often named after their place of origin and produced by generations of artisans. This continuity fascinates me, as does the transformation of these objects from cultural artifacts to symbols of wealth and intellectual prestige in Western interiors. My work reflects on this journey, questioning cultural appropriation and the fragility of meaning when objects migrate across contexts. 
     
Appadurai, Arjun (1986) “Introduction: commodities and the politics of value” The social Life of Things. Commodities in a cultural Perspective. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. s. 3–63 Baudrillard, Jean (2005) The system of objects. London: Verso Levitt, Peggy & Glick Schiller, Nina (2004) “Conceptualizing Simultaneity: A Transnational Social Field Perspective on Society” International Migration Review 38(3). s. 1002–1039 Miller, Daniel (2001). “Behind Closed Doors” Home Possessions: Material Culture Behind Closed Doors. ed. Daniel Miller. Oxford: Berg Publishers. s. 1–19 Pels, Dick; Hetherington, Kevin and Vandenberghe, Frédéric (2002) “The Status of Object: Performances, mediations and techniques” i Theory, Culture & Society Rampell Linda (2016) “The shopmodern condition” Art and Theory Publishing
It's antique, don't be fooled 56x90 cm 2022 oil on canvas

WORK
 2020–Present: Head of Curriculum, Lecturer in Fine Arts, Novia University of Applied Sciences
EDUCATION
2010: Konstfack University of Arts, Craft and design, Stockholm,  Artistic research Processes, pre doctoral studies 
2007–2012: Institute for Expressive Art Therapy, Stockholm, Diploma in Expressive Art Therapy, Step 1 in psychodynamic psychotherapy 
2002–2004: Aalto University of Art and Design Helsinki, Master degree in art education 
1999–2000: Åbo Akademi University, Vaasa, Pedagogy studies 
1992–1996: SYH Swedish Polytechnic, Nykarleby, Bachelor’s degree in fine arts
Etsi