Molded by a Clenched Fist

Description: Enforced disappearance has been systematically implemented in Turkey as a political strategy to create a climate of intimidation and fear. By using the disappeared as a tactical tool, the government seeks to ensure the broader population’s submission, with the threat of disappearance looming over the living. The majority of those subjected to extrajudicial killing are politically active individuals—dissidents, lawyers, journalists, writers, and community leaders. Molded by a Clenched Fist honors each disappearance, giving space, substance, and presence to the memory of people silenced by state violence in Turkey. The project’s artistic research was published by Hauser & Wirth Stories, the publication can be accessed here.

Materials: Clay made with soil from Turkey, winding sheets, trash bags, 1353 clay pieces molded by a clenched fist.

Image Description: Performance documentation, ‘Hande Sever: Molded by a Clenched First’, Hauser & Wirth Somerset, 2018. Photo: Vincent Evans