In my work, materials traditionally used in the construction and adornment of homes are composed of bodily creatures and domestic objects. These most recent sculptures, a series of flesh-toned radiators, examine the relationship between materials and gender. For me, radiators represent the complexity of deep internal systems. Combining liquid, pressure, and time their heat is permeating, yet slow to cool. Although they are made of cast iron, they can be quite delicate and are vulnerable to freeze, expand, and burst. I see many parallels between radiators, the human body, and psyche, particularly that of the feminine experience, like the long history of the female in a supporting role. Dialogues of femininity, domesticity, warmth, comfort, fragility, strength, necessity, and motherhood are addressed through this collection of objects. By imparting a personality into them, giving each more human-like colors, gestures, and forms, I begin to unravel my own history. Every sculpture is made of foam insulation board, plasters, and paint. The materials transform, recreate, and reimagine the traditional radiator while at the same time, reference the human body. The foam is heavily layered and built into cube-like forms that are then carved into each unique shape. After multiple layers and coats of plaster are put on and sanded down, the objects are painted in matte acrylic house paints. The labor-intensive process is a self-soothing act, as a means to work through inherent traumas. ”Paying Bills Sometimes Lent Her the Illusion of Order", along with the other titles of the work in this series are aptly taken from Joan Didion’s seminal novel "Play It as It Lays". This story of a woman in her thirties navigating marriage, divorce, motherhood, addiction, and mental illness speaks to the often-overlooked reality of the lived feminine experience. - Alyssa McClenaghan

February 11 at 7PM- IG LIVE

Studio Tour + Talk with Alyssa McClenaghan

moderated by Madison LaVallee