Strong, sexy and 10-foot tall describes the modern female Sasquatch and the subject of artist Allyson Mitchell's installation, Ladies Sasquatch, at the U of L Main Art Gallery from Sept. 18 through Oct. 30.
Ladies Sasquatch challenges the popular perception of Big Foot's solitary male persona, highlighting the softer side of the female Sasquatch using rich textiles, recycled fabrics, fake bear parts and fun fur.
The display features a commune of lady Sasquatches posed in their unique environments, exposing the lady Sasquatch for what she is and how she relates to her human counterparts. These monumental beauties are part of a national tour, with additional sightings at the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Art Gallery of Peterborough.
Described as a maximalist artist, Mitchell explores feminist art theory through installation, film and sculpture. Her work has been showcased across Canada and the U.S., throughout Europe and East Asia. She recently completed her PhD in Women's Studies at York University (Toronto) where she also teaches cultural studies.
While visiting the U of L, Mitchell is a featured guest lecturer for the Women Scholars Speakers Series, Sept. 17 at 12:15 p.m. (location TBA) and Art Now, Sept. 18 at noon in the University Recital Hall.