S A R A H B O W L I N G

Miller Institute for Contemporary Art

Pittsburgh, PA

Artists: Sarah Bowling, Jessica Fuquay, Laura Hudspith, Rosabel Rosalind, Rebecca Shapass, Caroline Yoo

Sarah Bowling’s interests center around the malleability of bodies; the continuous cycle of becoming, both physically and emotionally; and the interior landscapes of memory and desire. She uses painting, sculpture, and bodybuilding to explore the degree to which “bodies” can be pushed and manipulated while still maintaining their essential integrity. Her work delves into the emotional and physical thresholds and boundaries that define us. 

Meticulously woven chain link fences, a motif throughout Bowling’s work, represent an (in)visible boundary of desire– one that can be seen through, sought after, fantasized about, but remains on the other side. The fence, like a body, contains memories of every encounter that has transformed it. Even a small misalignment causes repercussions throughout its labyrinth of steel, much like the ripple effect caused by a single experience. The fence weaves and sags into its own weight. While being distorted by the sun’s harsh brightness, it flirts between a dream space and reality. 

Bowling also explores porous bodily boundaries through inflatable sculptures that mimic breath. A large painting, blushing like a cheek, radiates hot pink from the corner of the gallery. Similarly, the butt on the wall sweats… profusely. This self-contained fountain system echoes the rhythms of the human body. The sweaty butt occasionally leaves a mark. Sometimes embarrassing, sometimes a sign of hard work and exertion. Nonetheless, a reminder of touch. The concrete tears cast a heavy shadow, one felt by their material presence. Each work in this exhibition asks the question: what are the thresholds of a body and what is the weight of desire?