Eshref Qahili was born in 1960 in Rahovica, Presheva Valley. In 1983 he graduated in painting at the Academy of Fine Arts of Pristina and then, in the same academy in 1997, he completed his postgraduate studies in painting. In 1992 he opened his first solo exhibition at the ARS Gallery in Pristina, Kosovo. Since 1990, Qahili is the author of over 20 solo exhibitions and many other joint exhibitions inside and outside Kosovo in: England, India, Ireland, America, France, Italy, Cyprus, Japan, Turkey, Canada, Poland, Mexico, Romania , China etc. His art has been awarded with various national and international awards. He is currently in charge of the chair of illustration and drawing at the Faculty of Arts, University of Pristina.

Golden Darkness: Radio
Oil on canvas, 290 x 140 cm, 2023

The conceptual approach:

Douglas in 1985 said: "That the essence of understanding, the radio of the future will introduce new approaches to dealing with our many jobs and will unite all mankind".

Golden Darkness: Radio comes as a concept that unites memories of the past with the present. It unites moments, events and people; once upon a time, united by sound. A stable platform that had its impact. Through these works we reflect what we have already experienced, and what was once true. Listening to the music was like a sign of a great power that could not be distorted, making it more precious during each transmission. In society it was a true self-reflexive means of communication. Radio as a technological tool, although influenced by those who own it and have access to it, helped Kosovar society during the 90s in examining the differences between sounds and words, exploring the magnificent lives found between the frequencies. Yes, Radio helped to overcome the darkness that prevailed in the 90s, it was a coping mechanism. A simple technology that lived alongside every difficulty. However, what would this period be like, how would radio be used if AI was present during the 90s? Would it have the same effect? Would society be united through the same music and heard discussions? Would a sound art broadcast on the radio retain its power as these sounds fade into history?