At the 11th edition of ArtAnkara, Hiromita Project offered visitors an unforgettable experience with its interactive art installation, “Journey to the Heart’s Calling.” Throughout the fair, the installation evolved with the active participation of visitors, transforming into a deeply immersive and collective artwork.
From February 20-23, visitors became part of the Hiromita Project’s evolving installation, choosing colorful fabric pieces prepared by the artist and tying them to the Fabric River of Intention—a gesture symbolizing their commitment to personal and relational transformation.
At the heart of the installation stood a nomadic tent, representing one’s inner home and the journey of self-discovery. Surrounding it were glossy fiberglass-cast Hiromita sculptures, velvet-coated versions, and hand-painted variations by artist ANQI, alongside textured paintings. Inside the tent, a luminous Hiromita sculpture cast a mystical glow, creating an ethereal space for reflection.
Upon entering, visitors encountered a question inscribed on a mirrored surface:
“What dream within you is calling to be seen?”
Moved by the atmosphere, participants chose a piece of fabric that best resonated with their dreams and aspirations and tied the fabric to the Dilek Nehri (Fabric River of Intention), physically manifesting their commitment to their goals.
The conceptual foundation of the installation was inspired by the words of Rumi, inviting introspection and transformation:
“There is a life-force within your soul, seek that life.
There is a gem in the mountain of your body, seek that mine.
O traveler, if you are in search of That,
Don’t look outside, look inside yourself and seek That.”
Each piece of fabric was hand-cut by the artist, and the act of tying these pieces to the installation was inspired by shamanic traditions, where people symbolically attach their wishes to elements of nature, such as trees or rivers, as a way of setting intentions and embracing transformation. Here, the golden chain encircling the tent symbolized the River of Life, intertwining countless stories, hopes, and wishes into a collective artwork.
Hiromita: A Guide on the Path to Self-Discovery
Hiromita is an original character created by ANQI, inspired by Chinese “wamao” (rooftop guardian cat) sculptures, Asian manga, and Ancient Greek philosophical concepts of realizing one’s life purpose. Initially introduced as a digital artwork, Hiromita has since evolved into paintings, sculptures, and interactive installations, embodying the journey of individuation and the pursuit of meaningful connections.
By merging cultural storytelling and participatory art, Hiromita Project reaffirmed its role as an international art platform, fostering transformation through collective engagement.
“The deep conversations, meaningful interactions, and the way visitors resonated with Hiromita’s journey of self-discovery have been truly moving. Art finds its meaning in the connections we create through it, and I am incredibly grateful for everyone who became part of this experience,” said ANQI, emphasizing ArtAnkara’s role as a platform that strengthens the connection between art and its audience.
The realization of “Journey to the Heart’s Calling” was led by artist and creative director ANQI, with the contributions of Project Coordinator Ece Özuğur, Technical Design Coordinator Sude Yıldırım, and Graphic Design Coordinator Narin İrem Kıran (Nik Art Flow). Their expertise in project coordination, technical execution, and visual presentation played a key role in bringing the installation to life.
About ANQI and Hiromita Project
ANQI is a Turkish-Taiwanese contemporary artist whose multidisciplinary practice spans painting, sculpture, and interactive installations. Her work merges Eastern and Western cultural influences, focusing on themes of self-belonging, authenticity, and personal transformation.
Hiromita Project is an interdisciplinary art platform founded by ANQI, dedicated to exploring the transformative power of art through exhibitions, collaborations, and participatory experiences.
anqiartworks.com | hiromitaproject.com
Instagram: @anqiartworks | @hiromitaproject
