FREE TO FEEL GOOD
This project is a collection of photographs, text pieces, paintings, and sculptures coupled with dance-floor lighting that recreates the sensorial overload of dancing to pulsating music in queer places. In these venues, there is camaraderie, celebration, empathy, sexual freedom and release. Glitter, diamond dust, rhinestones, mirrors and beads supplement the different types of artwork media. Viewers who entered the room were encouraged to listen to music, dance and share the own personal stories of dancing in queer spaces.
The photography artworks are titled for the locations or events on which they are based. The painterly-like ink jet photographs reveal the use of similar lighting techniques across queer dance venues. The text pieces are personal thoughts or song lyrics that I heard while being in these spaces. Like street signage, when the text pieces are hit by light, they reflect back for a moment comparable to the transitory, intense feelings at dance parties. Shimmering paintings make reference to the appeal and excitement of being in these spaces. The bright colors in the paintings match the lighting at these parties. Disco balls anchor the installation and incorporate additional mirrors to reflect and intensify light to enhance the wonder of these ready-mades and the artwork in the room.
