Tunisian artist opens solo exhibition in Korea

Ahmed Laroussi, the Tunisian visual artist, opened his first solo exhibition on September 12 at the Verger art gallery in South Korea, reports The Korea Times on September 16.

The exhibition, titled “Beyond Horizons,” explores concepts of freedom and identity, the relationship between humans and technology and the limitless potential our future holds.

Beyond Horizons features 14 different artworks – including five of Laroussi’s representative works – as well as new pieces created for the exhibition.

The art of Laroussi covers many different mediums – from graffiti and mural art to oil and pencil paintings – the quality of which has been recognised by multiple rewards. One of his pieces has been permanently installed as a public artwork within Barcelona Square, Tunis.

Laroussi told reporters “My artistic journey began at the age of 4, when my older sister and I started drawing scenes from cartoons we used to watch on television. At the age of 7, I held my first exhibition at school, organized by the school administration.”

He continued: “From early on, drawing gave me a sense of uniqueness, a quiet confidence in doing something no one else around me could. Over the years, art became a safe refuge, a place I could escape to during times of pressure or emotional weight.”

“Today, painting is my way of expressing my vision of the world and addressing issues and emotions that are often difficult to articulate in words.”

A recurring image throughout Laroussi’s paintings is the bare, vulnerable human body being represented as metallic or being blended with technological advancements, a reflection upon the corporeality at the core of our beings and the ways we use technology to transcend it.

Laroussi has spoken of a desire for his work to outlive the artists: ““My deepest intention is for my thoughts and emotions to outlive me, to keep speaking through my art after I’m gone.”

“I believe that when an artwork truly connects with someone, it becomes a living presence, carrying the creator’s soul forward long after their voice has faded.”

The exhibition in Seoul marks another step forward in the global recognition of Tunisian creators – with another momentous step happening when the Tunisian film “The Voice of Hind Rajab” was nominated for an Oscar at the upcoming 2026 academy awards earlier this month.

Tunisia has already drawn international attention as the Global Sumud Flotilla was allowed to dock at ports in the nation whilst preparing for their final journey into Gaza, which they set sail for on September 15.

Laroussi’s exhibition will be held at the Verger art gallery until September 26.

The Korea Times, Maghrebi.org