Description:
Small wall installation that includes a print and candle, candle holder and shelf. The print in black ink includes a the front view of a nude female figure at the center and a female nude head and torso at the lower right. A stylized flower design is at the upper left and German text is printed vertically along the right. The English translation: MAK (griffin logo) Austrian Museum of Applied Arts 1992
Label Text:
Label text from the exhibition (OFF)BALANCE: Art in the Age of Human Impact, March 27-May 9, 2025:
Silent Work exemplifies Kiki Smith’s deeply introspective art practice and purposeful use of materials. She examines themes of the female body, ritual, and transience. Created in Germany as part of an exhibition of the same name, Silent Work is comprised of a screen print paired with a decorated candle conjuring a votive offering. Applied to the candle in silver leaf is the text Nehmet und esset alle davon, das ist mein Leib (Take this, all of you, this is my body) Matthew 26:26. The words invoke the concept of transmutation of spirit into the body and relate to the artist’s Catholic upbringing and interest in stories. The candle, a traditional symbol of mortality, further suggests the contrast between earthly existence and eternal life. Smith’s reinterpretation of the Virgin Mary posed nude in a gesture of blessing and protection, and her marguerite-flower tattoo design creates a floating atmosphere and instills an aura of spiritual introspection. - Eva R. Barajas, MA Candidate Art Education
Tags:
nudes; women; religion; flowers Link to share this object record:
https://museums.fivecolleges.edu/detail.php?t=objects&type=ext&id_number=UM+2007.3a-b |
