Laziza Rakhimova

Artist Statement

Laziza’s work blends art and environmental activism. Her involvement with the United Nations and environmental consulting influenced her artistic vision. As part of the ongoing LMCC residency at the Art Center on Governors Island in New York, Laziza works with oysters and marine habitats. She creates camera-less photography installations. Using infrared light, she captures the island’s landscape. In this work, she alludes to the fragility of the natural habitat and its enduring resilience and the urgency of restoration. Artificial oyster reefs created by the Billion Oyster Project span along NYC waterfronts, in hopes of re-wild and protecting the city from flood surges. Resilient Wall is a metaphor for waves attenuation, waterfront reinforcement, erosion reduction and creating a home for marine diversity. It represents a beacon of hope that New York harbor will regain its natural protection one day. The two presented artworks were captured and created on the Governor’s Island during the residency.