elseworld 1, inkjet on canvas, 2023 (on display at SPAO)

The School of the Photographic Arts: Ottawa (SPAO) is hosting its annual Open House on Friday, November 22, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at 77 Pamilla Street, Ottawa. This event features the opening reception for "Material Futures" an exhibition curated by Katie Lydiatt. The exhibition showcases photo-based works by artists Tony Gebrehiwot, Aaron Jones, Linh VH Nguyen, and Sage Szkabarnicki Stuart. Through portraiture, these artists explore themes of body politics, beauty perceptions, and future world-building, utilizing elements like technology, prosthetics, fashion, and assemblage to delve into identity, empowerment, and agency in a mediated future.

As part of the exhibition, I will be showcasing five pieces from my dandelion dancer and elseworlds series. Both explore the idea of reconstructing self and body after trauma through the use of dried or dead organic materials. Dandelion dancer is inspired by movement practices and dance, while elseworlds focuses on patterns passed on in relationships, particularly familial dynamics.

Attendees can enjoy live entertainment throughout the evening. Admission is free, and the event is open to the public. For more information, visit SPAO's official website.