Untitled #788, #790, #795, #796, #799, #800, #804

1993-95

Wax, candles, steel, wire, silk flowers, ribbons

Dimensions variable

This artwork by Petah Coyne is a site-specific sculptural installation that

becomes activated by the viewer's presence. One looks over or up into the

sculptural forms when ascending or descending the stairs. The large-scale

objects are chandelier-like or appear to be ballgowns, stylistically reminiscent

of the Rococo period. When standing in the stairwell, viewing the underside

of these objects, I became very conscious of the differences between the

external and internal forms of these structures. I believe that awareness is

integral to fully experiencing this artwork.

In these objects, Coyne creates a cumulative tension between sensuality,

malice, vulnerability, disruption, rawness, and delicacy. It is easy to get lost in

these wax forms, with the dripping wax coating on wire mesh creating a

dialogue between the soft, delicate, faux flowers and ribbons within their

cage-like interiors.

If these sculptures were only white they would appear more sterile and

stagnant. But the pops of color, reminiscent of an organic, living body,

revealed once you explore those interiors, brings them to life. These subtle

colors give me the impression that these are alive and responding to us

being in their space.

-Casey Wehrman