“Women, Vessels and Wild Cats” was a solo exhibition by Carolina Búzio in July of 2018 at graumalerei in Berlin, that reflected upon womanhood through paintings, ceramics and embroideries.

Symbology

There are 3 symbols throughout the exhibition. The first one, Women, is quite self-explanatory. The Vessel is related to the idea of women as “vessels”. A visual representation of its constant presence in the back of our minds.  The series “Conversations with vessels” are reflections on some of the different relationships we might have with our condition. Wild Cats are here as a symbol of empowerment and fierceness. Inspired by Josephine Baker and her pet cheetah.

Nomenclature

Naming storms and hurricanes after women’s names was common practise until 1978 (time when male names were introduced to the list). With a bit of irony, I now use them here again to honour the social upheaval and chaos each of these women created while braving the path for others… be it related to gender, race, liberation of the female body or expectations set upon them by society.

Technique

The particular choice of embroidery and carpet making in some of the pieces is a nod towards crafts that have been associated with women and the preparation for marriage, while the imagery subverts its purpose and gives you instead empowered and independent women.

“A Storm is Brewing”, 30x40 cm, Gouache on Bamboo paper 

“Storm Eunice”, 21x30cm, Embroidery on cotton

“Storm Marlene”, 64,5x120cm, Punch Needle on monk’s cloth

“Hurricane Helen”, 30x40cm, Gouache on bamboo paper

“Conversations with Vessels”, varied sizes and materials

“Hurricane Josephine”, 10cm, Sculpture, white clay

“Hurricane Elizabeth”, Embroidery on artist’s smock

Embroidered Patch is available in the shop.