Regan Rasmussen presents
safety within
at Xchanges Gallery Feb 4-19, 2023.
Opening Feb 3, 5:00-7:00 Artist Talk on Feb 19, 2:30
safety within
at Xchanges Gallery Feb 4-19, 2023.
Opening Feb 3, 5:00-7:00 Artist Talk on Feb 19, 2:30
Detail: “safety within” by Regan Rasmussen.
safety within is an experiential exhibition that invites the participant to process many aspects of personal communication. Entering the maze-like space, hung with long panels of translucent paper, we encounter the recurring motif of a crouching figure. The lighting is ambient and indirect, coming from various locations, providing an atmosphere of mystery and seclusion. The panels overlap and rustle as we pass, inviting us to peer through and around, perhaps make contact with the delicate skin-like vellum. Our sensory cues are heightened as we probe this thin membrane that both separates and connects us with others.
Rasmussen’s career in the visual arts includes undergraduate and graduate degrees from several universities. Her studies investigate the way we perceive and process everyday events. She researches how these moments imprint as memory and shape our lives. When the pandemic hit in March 2020, the artist turned inward to process the overwhelming situation. As she worked in solitude in the studio questions arose: How do we deal with adversity both physically and spiritually? And, as a community, how do we collectively support each other? “It’s been said that adversity introduces us to ourselves,” adds the artist.
Regan in her arc.hive studio with “safety within”, Dec 2022
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Kate at arc.hive studio with“safety within”, Dec 2022
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How do we find “safety within” during times of uncertainty and stress? One place Rasmussen found solace was on-line, teaching several art courses at the University of Victoria. Using art as a connector, she forged a collective safe space with digital tools. “The students were invited to create without judgement,” she says. “I gave them time to reflect and enjoy the tactile environment of artmaking.” Rasmussen was moved by the comfort level that evolved, which she describes as a symbiotic relationship between students and instructor.
In spite of her on-line teaching success, Rasmussen remains conscious of the effects of technology in our daily lives. She ponders how to balance the benefits with the drawbacks. Like many people, she questions the addictive nature of social media and the invasive reach of Artificial Intelligence. Ever mindful of our times, she keeps her yoga mat beside her computer and refrains from doom-scrolling and becoming consumed by media headlines. She notes that the pandemic pointed out many social inequities, but believes that all people working together can create a balanced, sustainable society. Artmaking is her tool to address social issues and political injustice.
Regan in her arc.hive studio with “safety within”, Dec 2022
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Initially, Rasmussen used charcoal and graphite powder on paper for the safety within series. She soon switched to translucent papers (both vellum and tracing) in order to imply the fragility and softness of skin. On hanging panels, up to 7 feet tall and 3 feet wide, she used gestural linework to reproduce the crouching figure. She describes the repeated form as being tucked in a contemplative, restful posture. “The position embodies an aura of calm and comfort,” she says, “and suggests maternal protection.” The repetition of the figure also reinforces the idea of being “alone together” in our fast-paced digital society.
imprint art card showing "safety within" figure
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Regan installing "imprint" sculptures at arc.hive Sept 2020.
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Both series, imprint and safety within, were completed during the pandemic. imprint showed for two weeks in September 2020 at arc.hive gallery. safety within shows at Xchanges Gallery Feb 4-19 2023. The artwork for imprint was primarily sculptural,
constructed from tissue papers, sewing patterns and beeswax. The photo shows Rasmussen at work adjusting and hanging the imprint show. The imprint series evolved into the safety within series. This progression is evident by viewing the imprint art card. On the card, we view the original drawing, with its dynamic charcoal markings and washes of linseed oil. Looking carefully, one views the safety within figure on a vellum panel, draped in front of the original drawing.
constructed from tissue papers, sewing patterns and beeswax. The photo shows Rasmussen at work adjusting and hanging the imprint show. The imprint series evolved into the safety within series. This progression is evident by viewing the imprint art card. On the card, we view the original drawing, with its dynamic charcoal markings and washes of linseed oil. Looking carefully, one views the safety within figure on a vellum panel, draped in front of the original drawing.
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Kate and Regan, at “safety within” arc.hive studio, Dec 2022.
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safety within is both playful and profound, offering visitors a unique experience. The artist’s ongoing dialogue with ideas and influences hangs in space (literally) for us to interpret and negotiate.
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Photo at left shows Kegan McFadden and Kate Cino at Regan's Opening on Feb 3, 2023. Regan's Artist’s Talk on Closing Day, Feb 19, was well-attended. A video of Regan's talk is available on her website. Over 90 people visited the show during the three-week run at Xchanges. Xchanges Gallery, 2333 Government Street, Victoria V8T 4P4. Regan welcomes your feedback. Please visit her website HERE |
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