Imagine exploring the beauty of the natural world without the gift of sight. For artist Emilie Gossiaux, this is her reality. Despite losing her vision in an accident, Gossiaux has found a new way to connect with the world through her artwork. Her first solo museum exhibition at the Queens Museum, titled “Other-Worlding,” celebrates her deep bond with her guide dog, London, and explores the relationship between animals and the natural world. Through papier-mâché sculptures and vividly painted flowers, Gossiaux challenges stereotypes and stigmas associated with disability while pushing back against societal norms and perceptions. In her pursuit of disability justice, Gossiaux’s work not only inspires, but also advocates for increased accessibility for blind individuals in the art world and beyond.
Emilie Gossiaux’s Solo Museum Exhibition at the Queens Museum
Emilie Gossiaux, an incredibly talented artist who is blind, is preparing for a momentous event in her career – her first solo museum exhibition at the Queens Museum. Gossiaux’s journey to this exhibition has been marked by courage, determination, and an unwavering passion for her craft. This article will delve into the background of Emilie Gossiaux, her unique bond with her guide dog, London, and the themes explored in her exhibition titled “Other-Worlding.”
Background of Emilie Gossiaux
In 2010, Emilie Gossiaux found herself facing a life-altering accident that resulted in the loss of her sight. It seemed as though her dreams of becoming an artist were shattered, but Gossiaux refused to give up. She embarked on a courageous journey of adaptation and rediscovery, finding new ways to express herself through her art. Gossiaux’s determination and resilience paved the way for her eventual success as an artist, and her work serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
Gossiaux’s Bond with Her Guide Dog, London
Throughout her journey, Gossiaux’s relationship with her guide dog, London, has played an integral role in her life and her art. London, a loyal canine companion and protector, has been by Gossiaux’s side for 13 years. Their bond goes beyond that of a typical human-dog relationship; it is one of mutual dependency and unwavering support. London has guided Gossiaux through the darkest of times, serving as her eyes and constant source of comfort. This deep connection is evident in Gossiaux’s artwork, as she explores the themes of trust, partnership, and interconnectedness.
Exploring the Theme of Dependency in ‘Other-Worlding’
Gossiaux’s exhibition at the Queens Museum, titled “Other-Worlding,” pays homage to her remarkable journey and the symbiotic relationship she shares with London. The central theme of the exhibition is dependency, challenging society’s misconceptions and stigmas associated with it. Through her artwork, Gossiaux aims to shed light on the inherent beauty, strength, and interdependence that exists in relationships. She challenges the notion that dependency equates to weakness, showcasing the power that can emerge from embracing our reliance on others.
Highlights of the Installation
The installation at the Queens Museum is a testament to Gossiaux’s artistic prowess and her ability to transcend the limitations of her disability. Here are some highlights of the exhibition that visitors can look forward to experiencing:
Papier-Mâché Sculptures of Dog-Women
Gossiaux’s papier-mâché sculptures depict dog-women gracefully dancing on their hind legs. These sculptures serve as a representation of the profound connection she shares with London. The merging of human and canine features symbolizes the blurring of boundaries and the idea that our identities are not confined to a single category. These captivating sculptures invite viewers to think beyond conventional norms and appreciate the beauty in embracing the “other.”
Monumentalized White Cane
At the heart of the exhibition stands a monumentalized white cane, symbolic of Gossiaux’s journey as a blind artist. This towering sculpture serves as a visual reminder of the resilience and determination required to overcome adversity. As visitors approach the monumentalized white cane, they are invited to reflect on their own perceptions of disability and the boundaries they may impose on themselves or others.
Brightly Painted Papier-Mâché Flowers
Gossiaux’s vibrant and intricately crafted papier-mâché flowers add a touch of whimsy to the exhibition. These brightly painted blooms serve as a metaphor for the resilience and beauty that can be found in the natural world. By incorporating tactile elements into her artwork, Gossiaux invites visitors to experience her art through touch, emphasizing the importance of sensory experiences in perceiving and understanding the world around us.
Exploring the Relationship Between Animals and the Natural World
Emilie Gossiaux’s art is not only a celebration of her personal journey but also a platform for exploring the relationship between animals and the natural world. Her work has been deeply influenced by feminist theories that seek to break down hierarchies and challenge perceived boundaries between species. Gossiaux’s art compels viewers to question the dominant narratives that label animals as mere objects or inferior beings. Through her intricate and thought-provoking pieces, she strives to cultivate empathy and respect for all living creatures.
Gossiaux as an Activist for Disability Justice
Emilie Gossiaux, beyond being an accomplished artist, considers herself an activist for disability justice. Through her work, she aims to challenge societal norms and disrupt the prevalent misconceptions surrounding disabilities. Her art serves as a rallying cry for inclusivity, accessibility, and the acknowledgment of individuals with disabilities as valuable contributors to society. Gossiaux’s residency at the Queens Museum has helped pave the way for increased accessibility efforts, ensuring that people of all abilities can engage with and appreciate art.
Emilie Gossiaux’s solo museum exhibition at the Queens Museum is a magnificent celebration of resilience, love, and artistic vision. Her ability to overcome adversity and create breathtaking art serves as an inspiration to us all. Through her exploration of dependency, she challenges us to reevaluate our perceptions and appreciate the interconnectedness that binds us. Gossiaux’s art ultimately invites us to embrace the beauty that lies in the “other” and strive for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
