Monstrous is a rejection of social norms, a show that finds the fear behind ‘othering’ and does not hide from it. This show ran from Aug 16th to Sept 12th 2024 at Art Access and included an opening reception as part of Salt Lake Gallery Stroll, in addition to an artist workshop. The exhibit featured 11 different pieces and was written about in both The Salt Lake Tribune and SLUG Magazine.
Artist Statement: Monstrous is a rejection of social norms, a show that finds the fear behind ‘othering’ and does not hide from it. What is my gender? Other. Sexuality? Other. Ethnicity? Other. Disability? Other. This loose fit, similar to Queer represents me better than any of the predetermined categories spread out in front of me. The truth is I think I ‘other’ myself more than anyone else. Every time I fill out a form, I assign it to myself. I am complicated, I am different from you, and I want to be a monster, if it means being something other. As you move through this show, I challenge you to find the hope and love in things previously assigned dangerous and disgusting. Pay attention to all the forms of ‘othering’ and monstrousness explored in the different pieces. Question your reaction to each and every one. Here I am, a monster, my skin peeled back. Here I am, an ‘other’, smiling at a horrible pun. Here I am, a predator, just trying to protect my friends. Remind me, what is scary about us monsters?
Catalogue and photography coming soon.