When I first entered Saja’s exhibit this is the what I saw, a wild and quirky “chandelier”. What made the whole exhibit even more unusual is that it is housed in a shipping container, one that has been remodeled, so to speak, for suitable placement on the grounds of the Shelburne. It is called Kalkin House.
This chandelier is actually made of long cylindrical pillows, designed to create back support for people sitting on sofas or up in bed. Saja calls them ProtoBolsters, and they seem to have evolved their own support in the form of four legs to stand on. They are all sewn by hand using upholstery pieces, either silk or cotton, stuffed with kapok, and sewn with surgical thread to close the opening. Saja decided for the exhibit he would install 30 of the ProtoBolsters in a cluster and hang them as a chandelier.
The first floor of the Kalkin House contains his “Salon of Love and Horror”. Saja commissioned 40 artists from around the world to paint portraits of him as a half human half animal hybrid. With my passion for all animals this particular part of the exhibit was a favorite. I want to share 4 out of the 40 that he showed. They ranged in various sizes.
Artist: Christopher St John
Artist: Stevan Levan
(Note the metal walls of the shipping container.)
Artist: Kristina Carroll
Artist: Sarah Sarchin
Wow! I just go caught up with your blog. It’s rich with creative people, ideas and works. Thanks for sharing.
P-
this guy has a real sense of humor. with a twist.
The chandelier makes me smile. The rest is thought provoking….
My first thought when looking at the Chandelier was
a cluster of stuffed pigs…very funny. The paintings
are very well executed but, a rather interesting topic.
( I agree with Jude.)
The volunteer at the museum said that most people seeing this “chandelier” for the first time guess they are pigs. I love his quirky humor and slightly irreverent stance.
Very interesting indeed! I agree a great sense of humor.
Hi, I did go to his blog. When I think of the diversity of artists and their interests, I tend to get overwhelmed. This world is so full of different viewpoints that it is staggering. You really make a contribution to point us in different directions.
Thanks!
I looked at his blog too. It was great, and I tried to put the link on the post, but for some reason could not get it to go. I will try again. I think artists are particularly good at instilling diversity through their unique voices and image. Lots of viewpoints means we never will get bored.