"Disrobe/Redress: Installation by Stephen Sheffield and Gina Cestaro"
2000-09-27 until 2000-10-22
Mobius
Boston, MA, USA

This installation consists of a series of five robes and four mixed media photomontages. Four robes, hanging in space, create a square, with the fifth robe in the center. Surrounding the robes are four mixed media panels approximately eight feet square. Each panel is paired with one of the four robes in the square, and is a reflection of the metaphor and symbolism expressed in that robe.

Each morning we get up and decide how we will live in the world that day. When dressing our spirit, what garments do we chooseNULL Do we clothe ourselves in the robes of honesty, trustworthiness and justiceNULL Or do we choose instead to poison ourselves with layers of fear, to tear at ourselves with shameNULL Today is the day to step out of the garments of illusion and limitation to reveal the inherent beauty of the human spirit.

Each of the four outside robes represents one specific state of mind that inhibits the potential of the human spirit to achieve a higher state of existence. This concept is primarily articulated on the interior of the robes, and important for two reasons. One: The spiritual/emotional transformation that this installation is concerned with has to happen internally. This is a journey of the spirit. Two: The robes show the disparity that is often present between our external behavior and our internal beliefs. The fifth robe, hanging in the center, is the expression of noble human spirit released.

The photographic element, literally adds another entry point into the work and provides a contextual and physical frame for each robe. Traditionally in art culture, as well as popular culture, the photograph has been seen as a representation of truth or evidence of truth. Here photography will represent the specific emotional content of each robe.

IMAGE:
Stephen Sheffield

Related Links:

Indepth Arts Resources for the State of Massachusetts

Other Important Exhibitions in Boston