In resonance with the exhibition Picture Perfect at Bozar, Moshtari Hilal, artist and author of ‘Ugliness’, and Maryam Kamal Hedayat, artist and curator, open an intimate and thought-provoking dialogue around a central question: can ugliness become an act of resistance, and how? They sit down with moderator Aurélie Disasi (aka Aru Lee), artist, poet, and dramaturg. In this excerpt of the Sofa Session personal memories meet broader histories. From childhood experiences of racism and othering to cosmetic surgery and the beauty industry, the conversation explores how ideals of beauty become attached to race, identity, and assimilation.

Credits:

Guests: Moshtari Hilal, Maryam Kamal Hedayat. Moderator: Aurélie Disasi. Editing: Elena Ndidi Akilo. Production & post-production: Seden Anlar. Graphic design: Jonas Mergan. Music ...