Artist Statement | Alvitr (Strange Creature)

Today, my partner and I installed the dress, helm, and process art I created for Embodied: Contemporary Takes on the Dress at the Gadsden Museum of Art. I genuinely enjoyed the experience and look forward to celebrating with everyone again at the opening reception. This post documents my work as it stands alone. I had a quick, easy install and couldn't resist getting some photos before the other 12 dresses joined the conversation. Keep reading to view the work and accompanying artist statement (in italics).

Alvitr and Helm, standing alone in the gallery.

Alvitr (Strange Creature) is a layered A-line gown that tells the story of a contemporary Valkyrie through modular garments and found objects. The bodice is a flurry of crocheted cotton snowflakes that swirl around the torso and down the arms, wrapped in a

translucent outer layer of vintage metallic fabric. Embellished spandex wraps delicately around the hips, revealing additional layers of faux fur, recycled lace, and rose-embossed velvet draped dramatically to the floor. A belt of hand-painted leather sits at the