Eulogy for you and Me :

Installation of 29 Painted Gowns Around the Base of a Dome

The wolves, foxes, and a couple African wild dogs painted on the skirts are animals whose existence is traditionally threatened and misunderstood. They are running with great energy in a giant circle under a dome. These are not everyday dresses, but magnificent gowns with a story. They are mostly wedding dresses donated to me or found in second hand and thrift stores. I dyed them different shades of blue to echo the color of the sky and water. As above, so below. They are also blue to reference Cinderella, the quintessential princess presented to little girls to emulate. The circle is also of women and girls, more than half of humankind. Paper dolls cut out, yet animated by the motion and movement of the beasts.  The joy of the dance is present, but also a sense of danger. Some wolves are stalking, escaping or growling. It is a visual narrative, as are my paintings, so the story is fluid for the viewer’s interpretation.

It took over a year to find, dye and paint the gowns.

This installation is part of my solo exhibition Summer Mares, with 22 oil paintings on canvas (The Travellers), at Barber Library Rotunda in Bend, Oregon, Fall 2024.