Tennessee-based artist Ali Waller makes sculpture installations using plaster casts of feminine bodies.
On View March 27, 2021 – June 27, 2021 | Community Gallery
Join us for a special opening reception on March 27, more info here.
'i will not let him win in death' Artist Statement
In May of 2020 I posted a call for survivors of sexual assault to join me in coming forward to tell their stories through a large scale installation. The piece comments on the abuse of power and the imbalances of sexuality.
I acknowledge that men, women, and nonbinary folks all experience abuse, however, the choice to highlight feminine bodies intentionally emphasized my own experience. If you are a survivor- I see you and I believe you.
The original installation consisting of 550 plaster casts was sparked after I watched the 'Filthy Rich' documentary on Netflix, a commentary on the Jeffrey Epstein story told by survivors of his coercion, rape, and ongoing abuse. In the beginning I intended to cast 200 survivors to reflect the $200 which he paid victims after assaulting them. I almost tripled that number in 5 months.
Women from Pakistan, California, Philly, Scotland, and Singapore from ages 20-75 reached out with stories of their abuse. My focus has shifted from the abuser to the survivor. Rather than highlighting the damage caused I would like to shine a light on the resilience required to live as a survivor. My mission now is to continue casting until the victim, Chauntae Davies, who testified, "I will not let him win in death." against Jeffrey Epstein hears how impactful her strength has been.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The artist invites women of the local community to participate by adding plaster casts of their bodies to the sculpture installation. Plaster casts will be displayed anonymously in the installation in SECCA's Community Gallery from March 27 through June 27. Plaster casting appointments are $20, and each cast can be purchased for an additional $80 after the close of the exhibition.
Plaster casting dates begin March 19, open weekdays from 10am to 5pm. Casting will take place on SECCA's campus, in a secure and private location. The process takes 45-60 minutes. To sign up for a time slot, go to: https://square.site/book/L9ZVAWB2HN5E4/ali-waller-chattanooga-tn
Questions? Contact the artist at alicekayw@gmail.com