Chromatic Inheritance
This series of photographs is a journey through the bittersweet experience of losing one's most cherished possessions. For women, jewelry not only symbolizes wealth and beauty, but the sentiments passed down through generations. However, the acquisition and presentation of such pieces by the governing institutions of art has historically been a practice of commodification. Often, the acquisition process involves the exploitation of the intended subject, leaving the deceased stripped of their prized possessions, further perpetuating the exploitative nature of museum practices.
As a woman, I have been objectified in many numerous forms to fit the image of a piece of furniture, art, a doll. Yet, through this collection of images, I have become the institution and the acquired jewelry. My aim is to convey the intricate process of acquiring and presenting art by stepping into the role of curator for a new jewelry exhibition. In doing so, I become not only the curator but also the physical embodiment of the emotional associations that jewelry represents.
To play with the flatness of the image the use of double exposure and photoshop was used to highlight the practice of concealing, especially in the context of museum acquisition. Jewelry and art are more than just decorative accessories they are modes of communication and this visual journey serves as a reminder of the significance of personal connections in the art world.