Ariel Hassan: Tragedy of Equality-Arm Wrestling

Tragedy of Equality IV (T.O.E. IV) – Arm Wrestling is the first solo exhibition of Ariel Hassan in North Macedonia. 

The project Tragedy of Equality (T.O.E.) has had three previous distinct iterations: Headshaving Battle, Mud Wrestling, and Knife Fight. The fourth act at the Skopje Museum of Contemporary Art in the period July–September 2025, presents an arm-wrestling match between two equal contestants, occurring within a triangular elevated platform designed by the artist, and built especially for this occasion.

Born in Argentina, Ariel Hassan spent formative years across Argentina, the United States, and spain before establishing his practice in Australia in 2005. A subsequent relocation to Germany in 2008 marked the beginning of an ongoing transnational existence, with the artist now maintaining studios and projects between both continents. By interrogating painting as a portal to human consciousness, Hassan has transcended the medium’s traditional boundaries, cultivating a singular visual language that unfolds across diverse forms of expression—a practice marked by both expansive experimentation and unmistakable individuality. His work, characterised by self-imposed rules and unpredictable outcomes, forms the foundation for intricate visual narratives to emerge. He has held several solo exhibitions in Australia, Spain, Japan, Singapore, Austria, and China, and participated in various group exhibitions including the Kochi-Muziris Biennale and the Cairo Biennale. His work is represented in several public collections.

Curated by d-r Melentie Pandilovski, JOLT ARTS Melbourne

The project is financially supported by The Government of South Australia, CreateSA, and GAG Art Advisory