HOSSEI
ESSSENSSSE

ESSSENSSSE is a joyful work about healing and new beginnings by contemporary artist HOSSEI. Featuring otherworldly sea creatures in a playful and multi-sensory aquatic themed ecosystem, this immersive installation creates a dynamic space for all ages and abilities that invites audiences to celebrate their inner creative spirit and explore art through more than just sight.

For blind and low vision audiences, the exhibition includes audio descriptions that vividly describe each costume’s character. Braille QR codes are available throughout the space to help one navigate and connect with the exhibition in their own way.

ESSSENSSSE began when HOSSEI became fascinated by the sand dollar sea creatures— their shape, features, and how in mediaeval times it was truly believed that sand dollars were mermaid currency. When looking at the sand dollar, HOSSEI realised that if you were to remove the physical characteristics of a human body, you would be left with a mouth and an anus, just like the sand dollar. It is this idea that compelled HOSSEI to make the sand dollar an emblem of the show. An entry point and an exit, not just with food, but in the sense of discerning which energies come through and nourish the insides, and which are let out. ESSSENSSSE is about letting go and being one with the spirit and embracing its purity and vulnerability.

HOSSEI is a multidisciplinary Australian artist with Persian, Turkish and Russian ancestry, exhibiting work across Western Sydney and beyond for more than twenty years. HOSSEI’s practice is influenced by his 7 years as Student Learning Service Officer (SLSO), supporting students with a range of abilities and backgrounds at Newtown Public School (NPS).

ESSSENSSSE is a Verge Gallery exhibition curated by Tesha Mallot, touring in partnership with Museums & Galleries of NSW, supported by the University of Sydney and proudly funded by the NSW Government. Verge Gallery is supported by the University of Sydney Union.