The anthropomorphic sculptures of visiting artist Beth Cavener Stichter address human psychology through animalistic behaviors, using animal body language to metaphorically encapsulate complex human emotions. At first glance, they appear as feral animals suspended in moments of tension, with swirling, icing-like fur as if they’ve just leapt out from the artist’s chosen medium, clay. The creatures’ intense expressions reveal human emotions below the surface, however, suggesting not only fear and aggression but elements of self-consciousness, apathy, betrayal and isolation. By prying and dissolving the edges between what’s considered animal versus human, Cavener guides viewers towards becoming at peace with the primitive animal instincts that remain buried within mankind.
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