Behold This Heart, Which Has Meant So Much To So Many Men
This installation drew on the tradition of piñata parties but served as an allegory for both the grief and resilience expressed in relationship to the many lives lost to AIDS.
The piñata remained unbroken and dramatically spot lit during the first four days of the exhibition, which occurred during the month of February.
On the eve of Valentine’s Day, a celebratory party was held in the gallery with food, music and multiple attempts to break the huge heart.
After nearly a half hour of collective efforts, the heart ruptured open and out spilled flower petals, condoms and Blowpop lollipops.
After the party/performance ended, the detritus remained present for the remainder of the exhibition, a sober yet poignant reminder of a kind of passing and change.
The title comes from a caption to a graphic Catholic votive card which featured the Christ figure presenting the sacred heart encircled with flame and thorns.
The piñata remained unbroken and dramatically spot lit during the first four days of the exhibition, which occurred during the month of February.
On the eve of Valentine’s Day, a celebratory party was held in the gallery with food, music and multiple attempts to break the huge heart.
After nearly a half hour of collective efforts, the heart ruptured open and out spilled flower petals, condoms and Blowpop lollipops.
After the party/performance ended, the detritus remained present for the remainder of the exhibition, a sober yet poignant reminder of a kind of passing and change.
The title comes from a caption to a graphic Catholic votive card which featured the Christ figure presenting the sacred heart encircled with flame and thorns.
