ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE
ZANELE MUHOLI
South African artist and visual activist Zanele Muholi, known for their nomadic approach, often creates work in response to their immediate environment while traveling. Muholi’s iconic Somnyama Ngonyama (Hail the Dark Lioness) series features self-portraits produced alone in hotel rooms, with hairstyles, costumes, and sets created ad-hoc from available objects and materials. These works document and envision self-embodiment, existing through the immediacy of the medium. What Muholi produces in Aspen will depend on interactions with the local art community, their response to the natural landscape, and their first-hand experiences. Muholi’s practice continues wherever they are, frequently addressing issues faced by the queer community in that locale.
Concurrent to the Aspen Art Fair Residency, Muholi's work is the subject of two major museum exhibitions on view at the Tate Modern in London and SFMOMA in San Francisco.
Zanele Muholi is appearing courtesy of Southern Guild (Cape Town, South Africa and Los Angeles, CA).
EVAN HECOX
Denver-based artist Evan Hecox is best known for his multidisciplinary approach, drawing inspiration from his life experiences, memories, and travels. In the early 1970’s, Hecox spent summers in Aspen attending the Aspen Institute Design Conference with his two artist parents. He returns to the Hotel Jerome residency to draw upon these deep family roots with artwork inspired by the history of Aspen, the surrounding wilderness, and the greater Southwest region. Hecox will execute a new linocut project honoring The Center Of The Eye, a 1960s experimental photography workshop that took place at the Hotel Jerome, as well as a series of abstract flag paintings infused with icons of the Southwest. His studio will emulate his Denver workspace, inviting visitors to experience his creative process.
Evan Hecox is appearing courtesy of Hexton Gallery (Aspen, CO).
CRYSTALLE LACOUTURE
American artist Crystalle Lacouture will present House Jewelry, inspired by Aspen's history and Hotel Jerome's connection to the 19th-century Colorado Silver Boom. This site-specific installation features multi-strand pieces made of wood and silver metal, evoking Aspen trees and the Silver Boom. The cascading strands, designed for viewer interaction, offer a sensory experience with beads and bells. Incorporating secret coded messages using Baudot Code, one of the earliest codes used in wireless telegraphy, the artwork symbolizes protection and adornment. Additionally, the Hotel Jerome's haunted history adds a playful element, making the installation a potential charm against mischievous spirits.
Crystalle Lacouture is appearing courtesy of Praise Shadows (Brookline, MA).