The Iloilo Museum Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) presents “The Red Chair,” a solo exhibition by multimedia artist Babak Niaraki, running March 8 to April 2025 in Gallery 3. This collection of photographs explores the tension between societal expectations and personal authenticity.
As a symbol of imposed norms, the red chair traditionally represents one’s predisposition to conformity. However, Niaraki subverts this notion, using the female form in unconventional poses to challenge expectations. Through strength and fluidity, his subjects embody individuality, encouraging viewers to reconsider and challenge their own roles within society.
Despite his 2008 debut exhibition “Not Black / Not White,” Niaraki struggled with creative limitations. The global pandemic became a turning point, allowing him to shed societal constraints and develop a renewed artistic vision.
“The Red Chair” is a declaration of independence from conformity—an invitation to embrace self-expression and challenge societal norms. Through this exhibition, Niaraki encourages introspection, rebellion, and self-discovery.
ILOMOCA, the first museum in the Visayas region dedicated to contemporary art, promotes cultural education, heritage preservation and artistic excellence through exhibitions and programs.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry at 5:30 p.m.). For inquiries, contact ILOMOCA via Facebook (@ILOMOCA), Instagram (@itsilomoca), TikTok (@ILOMOCA), or email at ilomoca.ph@gmail.com.
