Tau Lewis presents an awe-inspiring exhibition titled “Spirit Level” at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston. The show features towering sculptures of mythic beings, each with a unique role and gesture, standing over a large circular quilt at the center of the gallery. These monumental figures, nearly 11 feet tall, are crafted from found fabrics and objects, showcasing Lewis’ meticulous stitching and sculpting skills.
In her first solo museum show in the U.S., Lewis explores a vast cosmology where objects hold deep meaning and memory. The sculptures in “Spirit Level” are a testament to her fascination with transforming materials into unearthly beings. One striking example is “Mutasis Moon,” a friendly alien-like creature with four eyes and turquoise hands, welcoming viewers with open arms.
The exhibition features a diverse range of materials, from remnants of clothing to muslin scraps dyed with rust, snakeskin, conch shells, and coral bone. Each sculpture tells a unique story, such as “The Doula,” a portrait of the sea in dark green, blue, and brown leather and suede. Another standout piece is “The Handle of the Axe,” adorned in gold attire and inspired by Alice Walker’s novel “Possessing the Secret of Joy.”
At the heart of the exhibition is “The Last Transmission,” a sprawling quilt that serves as an architectural portal to another universe. Made up of small fabric panels embellished with glass, beads, and wire, the quilt radiates outward from a starfish at its center, inviting visitors to explore a new world.
“Spirit Level” is a captivating journey into Lewis’ imaginative world, where myth and reality converge in monumental sculptures and intricate quilts. The exhibition is on view in Boston until January 20, 2025, before traveling to David Zwirner in Los Angeles. To learn more about Tau Lewis and her work, visit her website and Instagram.
