Jessie Bouche

Curatorial Rationale

Evolution of Exploitation​

I tend to abide by the idea that my beliefs are subject to change as new information is presented to me. My own perspectives evolve as I grow and encounter circumstances which invite me to defy my typical comforts. Similarly, the concept of change haunts people for its  aspect of having to face the unknown; and grapple with unfamiliar or perplexing situations . The more dramatic the change that is presented, the more disconcerting attitudes are evoked. However, change is unavoidable. Growing up, learning from mistakes, and reflecting on all the past versions of ourselves all constitute change, and we have prevailed. Nature and creative expression have always been my “safe spaces” and my constants, so I was inclined to have this display showcase some aspects of  my own vulnerability in addition to accentuating ways to imply the complexity of human emotion- both through my own interpretation as well as throughout history.

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My selected collection of work embodies the idea of change itself, with a gradual clockwise transition from prehistoric to modern day issues that have plagued this world. Walking through the display is intended to conjure feelings of impending urgency in seeking a solution to climate degradation. Conversely, it is possible the viewer can relate to some of the feelings being depicted.  In my exploration of mediums I knew I wanted to experiment with some exotic materials in addition to broadening my application of how to convey the experiences from multiple groups in terms of coping with changes in a reconfiguring world. I was given the opportunity to do so with the primary use of victimized animals juxtaposed with anguish and overbearing identity of humans. Through my investigation of artists like Rene Magritte, who obscures the human face or enshrouds them in cloth, I wanted to create a disconnect of eye contact in my pieces as a way to evoke a glimmer of guilt out of the viewer. Eye contact is a sign of respect, and having that connection stifled lightly blames humans for the condition our world is in now. 

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I consciously included some personal anecdotes throughout the exhibit to signify growth of identity and development of my own individuality. Light used as a cohesive factor to imply an uplifting, glowing visual element. We have control of our choices, and challenging the regularity of complacency is the initial step toward a more dynamic relationship with ourselves and our surroundings.