I recently visited Adrian Paci's solo exhibition at the Jeu de Paume in Paris, running until May 12th.
Paci is an Albanian artist who immigrated to Italy in the chaotic 1990s after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The exhibition is titled "Transit." His works are mostly romantic and nostalgic video pieces, many of which focus on the theme of "migration."
The exhibit included a video of him trying to enter the country by claiming to be an artist to immigration authorities, and another showing people lining up on an airplane ramp, ready to "fly" despite there being no plane there.
In contrast to "migration," the exhibition made me think about what "home" really means. "Home" is not necessarily where you were born or where your family is. In fact, these can sometimes act as a hindrance.
In today's world of easy mobility, the concept of "home" is broadly understood by many as "where the heart is." Rather than existing, it is something to be actively sought out and created. Perhaps it is something that can exist beyond time and space. The exhibition, with its high-quality video works, evoked such a romantic feeling.

Europe is facing a serious immigration problem from Eastern European countries and neighboring countries. In particular, the UK's immigration minister, Mark Harper, recently announced that the UK will have "the world's toughest immigration policy." Despite this, Europe's appeal lies in the degree of freedom of movement within the region and the diversity of its people.

Its cosmopolitan environment also provides the driving force for attracting high-quality talent. While there are certainly economic and security challenges, cultural diversity is a powerful tool for regional branding... I'm reminded of this every time harsh decisions are made regarding immigration restrictions.

Recently, a friend who emigrated from Iran to Paris spoke passionately about her circumstances and the diaspora. Her turbulent experience of migration certainly had its challenges, but its uniqueness is also fascinating. I am drawn to people who, while forced to move, think seriously about "where their heart is" and "home," and who inspire others to do the same.

Every time I go to Europe, where, unlike America, there is no expectation of a uniform national identity, I return home feeling a little freer, conscious of a "home" that transcends time and space.