swoon: thalassa at new orleans museum of art

'thalassa' by swoon, a site-specific installation for the new orleans museum of art
images © swoon

 
new york based artist swoon has created 'thalassa' for the new orleans museum of art.
designed specifically for the site’s century-old hall, the 20-foot tall installation depicts
its namesake greek goddess, revered as the mother of all sea creatures, with extended
tentacles rising from the waters.

transforming the everyday into the mythical, the work draws its concept from
new orleans' ties to the sea: the urban center depends strongly on its ports for
commerce, transportation, energy, and food. the monumental figure is thus emblematic
of the city's present and historical relationship with water.
 


view beneath the figure



paper cuts detail


suspended from the ceiling, the deity is surrounded by mixed-media strands comprised
of linocut prints and paper cutouts of aquatic creatures, as well as colorful swathes of fabric.
these forms are draped from the second floor balcony, such that the figure hangs directly over
visitors who enter the space.

'thalassa' is on display now until september 25, 2011.



second floor view






installation view



opening reception






installation process