Philosophy in the bedroom, 2022

Canvas, upholstery foam, wood frames, buttons, staples.

90 x 120 cm

This work is inspired by French philosopher Marquis de Sade’s book ‘La Philosophie dans le Boudoir’ (1795) written in the form of a dramatic dialogue. Though initially considered a work of pornography, the book has come to be considered a socio-political drama.

The mirrored yet different frames depict the complex exchange of a sensual dialogue. Unstretched and unbuttoned canvas as an unmade bed after carnal intercourse, as if the smaller frame left an imprint on the bigger frame such as a head mark on a pillow.

The traditional upholstery techniques I apply on most of my work, embody swollen human flesh and erectile tissue.

The buttons & staples penetrating the flesh of the work represent the moment of coupling and the traversing of barriers between people.