Tending
2021
river stones, wood, paper
4 x 96 x 96 in.
Tending invites viewers to remove their shoes and walk across an expanse of river stones to experience the fluctuating pain and rejuvenation of reflexology. Each stone is washed by hand, a punishing process of care that erodes my own skin. They are arranged according to size, shape, and texture, so moments of respite are diffused amongst acute pressure. A reimagined pressure point diagram is available as a corresponding takeaway. Two distinct narratives reveal themes of tenderness and violence, pain and healing, grief and joy.
The corresponding takeaway is available for purchase here.
Beholden to the words and wisdom of Ross Gay, Cathy Park Hong, Theresa Hak Kyung Cha, Teju Cole, and Ocean Vuong.
And Raelin—who I have yet to meet, who I have loved before knowing.