Forever Sleepover for ArtBlog

Forever Sleepover at Practice Gallery

By Kathryn Sclavi

http://www.practicegallery.org/

photo’s and review by Leah Koontz

Practice Gallery is currently showcasing artist Kathryn Sclavi for her solo show Forever Sleepover which will be on view until October 26^th. This show features a large instillation, which creates a living space that is reminiscent of blanket forts and childhood. The instillation comes complete with candy, cookies, pillows, sleeping bags, a chandelier, a silent screening of titanic, and many shades of pink. The work is made from a wood structure and a variety of hand stitched feminine fabrics sewn together. The fabrics feature various patterns and embroideries. This material is stretched over the wooden supports creating Forever Sleepover.

The space encourages people to sit together and talk, the way we used to as children back when we had the time. This conversation helps us consider larger ideas about communication, human relationships, and growth. The environment has a slightly sinister “no boys/no adults” allowed feeling. This causes the viewer to feel a sense of unease and seduction at the same time. After experiencing the work I found myself reflecting on my past and current relationships and wondering where my values have differed.

Kathryn wanted to make a piece, which speaks specifically about women, and draws out the importance and intensity of female friendships. Her work is often about social engagement, and community.  This piece addresses equality and social justice at large because progress and education surrounding women is also progress for all groups. I believe this piece helps the progress of women because it asks us to talk, and reflect on critical issues, and think about our collective past. Forever Sleepover is confrontational; its appearance is grotesque and lovely at the same time. The color’s and tiny stitches are beautiful, but the craft is crude. The selection of fabric squares is overwhelming. This aesthetic and juxtaposition reinforces the way society views women. It also accounts for the struggle to cope with these complex ideas as women. The work is loud and open about its concept. This is important because social issues need to be accessible to everyone. These lessons are important and we all need to reflect on them.  

Be sure to come to one of the two women only “Cake and Gossip” sessions from 7-9 on the 17^th and the 24^th of October. If you cant make either of those dates stop by for the “Ladies Sleepover at Forever Sleepover” beginning at 8 pm.