SONNET
ABOUT THE WORKS:
This work is about the process of reconciling oneself in the midst of a relationship, while invoking a visual and emotional reaction through the aesthetics and demonstration. Each piece is representative of the power dynamics within a relationship and how this use of power impacts not only our emotional state but also the physical state. Both of the works depict how power in a relationship impacts the mind and body. While one piece depicts a literal fragmentation of the mind and body the other seeks to evoke a response from the viewer to question what it is.
Zoe has created two separate works that include painting, sculpture, mixed media, and photography but are all linked in concept. Throughout her research, Zoe has not only used her own personal experience but also looked into other artists whose work is representational of the process of loving another and the power play one has on another. Artists that have influenced the works are those such as Gonzalez-Torres and Tracey Emin whose work also explores the ideas of emotional and physical weight from relationships either through physical interaction or text and visual. Pieces such as Untitled (Portrait of Ross in L.A.) by Gonzalez- Torres and Tracey Emin’s works in the Fortnight of Tears series have inspired Zoe’s works.
Though relationships are intimate experiences between that of only two people, Zoe’s work is meant to be representational of the weight (both emotional and physical) all relationships possess. The ideas that one must still claim themselves in the relationship is also very prevalent in Zoe’s work and invokes questions into what makes a relationship work. In Zoe’s photo montage she pieces together overly criticized or overlooked parts of the female body in a way of owning ones body narrative. Just as a relationship is meant to be experienced, Zoe’s work is meant to be as well.
Zoe has created two separate works that include painting, sculpture, mixed media, and photography but are all linked in concept. Throughout her research, Zoe has not only used her own personal experience but also looked into other artists whose work is representational of the process of loving another and the power play one has on another. Artists that have influenced the works are those such as Gonzalez-Torres and Tracey Emin whose work also explores the ideas of emotional and physical weight from relationships either through physical interaction or text and visual. Pieces such as Untitled (Portrait of Ross in L.A.) by Gonzalez- Torres and Tracey Emin’s works in the Fortnight of Tears series have inspired Zoe’s works.
Though relationships are intimate experiences between that of only two people, Zoe’s work is meant to be representational of the weight (both emotional and physical) all relationships possess. The ideas that one must still claim themselves in the relationship is also very prevalent in Zoe’s work and invokes questions into what makes a relationship work. In Zoe’s photo montage she pieces together overly criticized or overlooked parts of the female body in a way of owning ones body narrative. Just as a relationship is meant to be experienced, Zoe’s work is meant to be as well.
ABOUT THE EXHIBITION:
Sonnet is a collection of work by students enrolled in the Sophomore Research Studio (in the DAAP program at the University of Cincinnati) led by Lorena Molina. Each student was hand selected by the Fine Arts faculty during their foundations review for their excellent performance and portfolio.
During their Fall 2019 semester, they looked at different modes of research by learning how other artists integrate research and their practice. They conducted biweekly Skype interviews with contemporary artist to learn and better understand the importance of research in their work. Each student proposed and developed a personal project that they were passionate about. They researched these concepts by using literature in the subject, looking at the archive, interviewing their subjects, and learning how other contemporary and historical artists have explored similar concepts. Multiple in progress critiques and conversations were had to discuss the effectiveness of their execution and ideas. A common theme in their work is how identity is shaped by power structures and ways to dismantle or reshape the narrative. The final product of this research is an exhibition at the waiting room gallery and a catalog.
Just as many lines are in a sonnet, there are 14 students exhibiting work in the exhibition. Songs and poems are associated with personal expressions of narratives. Each “line” becomes it’s own independent narrative, but still manages to come together under one composition.
Artists in the show included: Zoe Antona, Gabi Barrera, Emily Baxter, Quincy Collins, Annie Concannon, Kacie Finnegan, Sydney Greven, Darion Hassert, Ellis Johnson, Aidan Mahoney, Abbey Pour, Elan Schwartz, David Unthank, and Cooper Wood
During their Fall 2019 semester, they looked at different modes of research by learning how other artists integrate research and their practice. They conducted biweekly Skype interviews with contemporary artist to learn and better understand the importance of research in their work. Each student proposed and developed a personal project that they were passionate about. They researched these concepts by using literature in the subject, looking at the archive, interviewing their subjects, and learning how other contemporary and historical artists have explored similar concepts. Multiple in progress critiques and conversations were had to discuss the effectiveness of their execution and ideas. A common theme in their work is how identity is shaped by power structures and ways to dismantle or reshape the narrative. The final product of this research is an exhibition at the waiting room gallery and a catalog.
Just as many lines are in a sonnet, there are 14 students exhibiting work in the exhibition. Songs and poems are associated with personal expressions of narratives. Each “line” becomes it’s own independent narrative, but still manages to come together under one composition.
Artists in the show included: Zoe Antona, Gabi Barrera, Emily Baxter, Quincy Collins, Annie Concannon, Kacie Finnegan, Sydney Greven, Darion Hassert, Ellis Johnson, Aidan Mahoney, Abbey Pour, Elan Schwartz, David Unthank, and Cooper Wood