Out of Sight/Out of Mind

Paintings and Installation
by Henri Doner-Hedrick
April 4–May 16, 2008
Sabatini Gallery

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Henri Doner-Hedrick's work is simultaneously protest and celebration. She presents her mother, who now lives in a nursing home, as a whole person—physical, psychological, emotional, sexual, historical. She also presents her mother's condition: developing dementia, having survived surgeries, neglect, child-rearing, political activism, a career. Henri has visited nursing homes, interviewed residents and learned their stories, hopes and frustrations. She has grown close to many of the residents and she wants to share their voice.

By examining our treatment of the elderly, Henri alerts us to the potentials we all may face as our population ages. She also makes us confront and question our stereotypes of race, culture and age. Is art always beautiful? No. Not when the artist is conveying the unbeautiful. Afrightening image may be beautifully presented but the technique may belie the artist's protest and outrage. Henri's experience has included not only the joys of getting to know with rich personal histories, but also the problems common in care for the elderly.

–Sherry Best, exhibit curator

22 photos | 156 views

items are from 10 May 2008.