Unveil Gallery is pleased to share that “Pillar To Post” -- a solo exhibition of artist Catherine Menard will be opened on Saturday, April 20th, 2024 from 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM at our Irvine space. Building upon her established sculptural, performative, and experiential practices, Menard presents a compelling body of work that pushes boundaries and invites viewers to engage in profound exploration.
In considering the concept for the exhibition, the phrase "from pillar to post" resonated deeply with Menard, a phrase which means being moved from one distressing circumstance to another without purpose or improvement. Originating from medieval torture practices, this phrase first found its place in literature in an epic poem titled "The Assemble of Goddes," attributed to an anonymous woman author. Hoping to find unique inspiration from the poem, the artist found instead that the classical presentation of this council of gods and goddesses was simply a ploy to ultimately reinforce oppressive concepts like fear, guilt, and repentance.
Rather than finding hope or relief, the artist encountered our most infamous oppressor and the enduring symbol of the pillory. Turning then to philosopher Julia Kristeva's teachings on the catharsis of artmaking as an escape from existential and literal horrors, the artist aims to create a multisensory environment for the exhibition. Through performance, sound composition, and found-object sculpture, Menard recontextualizes and interrogates meanings, defiantly engaging with punitive symbols in an act of self-reflection and historical contemplation.
"Pillar To Post" will be on view from April 20th, 2024, to May 25th, 2024.
In considering the concept for the exhibition, the phrase "from pillar to post" resonated deeply with Menard, a phrase which means being moved from one distressing circumstance to another without purpose or improvement. Originating from medieval torture practices, this phrase first found its place in literature in an epic poem titled "The Assemble of Goddes," attributed to an anonymous woman author. Hoping to find unique inspiration from the poem, the artist found instead that the classical presentation of this council of gods and goddesses was simply a ploy to ultimately reinforce oppressive concepts like fear, guilt, and repentance.
Rather than finding hope or relief, the artist encountered our most infamous oppressor and the enduring symbol of the pillory. Turning then to philosopher Julia Kristeva's teachings on the catharsis of artmaking as an escape from existential and literal horrors, the artist aims to create a multisensory environment for the exhibition. Through performance, sound composition, and found-object sculpture, Menard recontextualizes and interrogates meanings, defiantly engaging with punitive symbols in an act of self-reflection and historical contemplation.
"Pillar To Post" will be on view from April 20th, 2024, to May 25th, 2024.
