Parallel Disorientation
September 6, 2018 6PM-9PM
Parallel Disorientation
Parallel Disorientation highlights the parallels between the artistic practices of Tessa Reed, Julianna Zwierciadlowska, and Marissa Diamond. In Parallel Disorientation, each artist explores the human experience in a different manner while seeking to challenge traditional modes of thought. For instance, we investigate how things are experienced via touch and interaction through objects, how political issues affect the human experience, and how the media and gender standards affect how a person views their own body.
The collection of works for the show are also connected to liminality. That is, each artist’s works are centred on unresolved issues. These issues regarding daily interaction with objects, politics, and femininity have complex histories and traditions, which make it challenging to create rapid change. Although our society has made many changes, these issues are still in a malleable or liminal state.
The purpose of Parallel Disorientation is to create a dialogue or conversation, which questions conventional perspectives on interaction, politics, and femininity. The works are open to interpretation. The pieces deliberately provoke, bring forth different viewpoints, and challenge our typical thought patterns. We strive to push beyond the feelings of disorientation and discomfort which are often brought about by change.
Tessa Reed
As a ceramics artist, functionality is a consistent theme throughout my work. Experimentation with surface treatment, form, and process gives birth to new shapes and interesting ideas. This series is a departure from purely functional work, and is instead an exploration of tactility. I will invite the viewer to touch and interact with the pieces that will be installed through the space.
Julianna Zwierciadlowska
My practice has always been inspired by my surroundings and I find myself propelled by my insatiable curiosity. My work tends to address contemporary issues about our food sources,
agriculture industry and our relationship to nature. I want to challenge our connection we have with the natural world along with the social and political implications we have placed on
ourselves. I am fascinated by nature and what it provides to the human experience, but also how we have altered natural ecosystems and what the ramifications this has on the human
population. Through my ceramic sculptures I intend to further explore these issues and challenges our current way of thinking.
Marissa Diamond
My current body of work explores the human body, preconceived ideas about beauty and art, and the gendering of art-making methods. I am influenced by the Pattern and Decoration
Movement and the fashion industry. Additionally, I am interested in the physicality of paint, clay, and crochet. I think of paint and clay as though they are body parts and crochet elements in my
work as a force that influences the movement of our bodies, much like clothing. My practice challenges conventional ideas about beauty by investigating the boundary between the grotesque and the beautiful.
