"Vida"

Comment

Comment by Resident Curator on January 14, 2016 at 1:49pm

Curator’s Comments:  

 

Vida looks to be a little jewel of a piece, without knowing the actual dimensions.   The milky white surface pigmentation unifies the found objects within the soft brown patina along the frame edges and knotted twine.  The iconic placement of the central organic shell and yellowed (brass?) name plate for me calls to mind religious reliquary and ex-votos.  While formally in contrast with some of the other assemblages, it maintains an interesting tension between the sacred and profane.  The cowry shell itself provides a bold focal element, as it folds in on itself and displays very small razored teeth.  I see this as a tentative visual entry into the composition/sculptural form that is simultaneously wrought with mystery and natural dangers.  I don’t know if its inclusion intends to speak to the clash between nature and culture, or religious fervor?  Perhaps these interpretations come in context with the other works you have on the site.  The work’s title, intimating broader associations, leaves room for the viewer to contemplate origins, preciousness, conflicts and destiny.