“Interaction with pets, whether through playful engagement or simply enjoying shared tranquility, adds joy to our lives. This beautifully encapsulates the essence of what it means to share our lives with companion species.” – Donna Haraway, from ‘Companion Species Manifesto’
Companions is an upcoming group exhibition that honors the bond we share with animals. This showcase includes an array of artworks by talented artists such as Lola Dupre, Debra Broz, Roberto Benavidez, Misato Sano, William Mophos, and Nicolas V. Sanchez. This exhibition captures the various dimensions of how we engage with our non-human companions.
Each artist reinterprets their beloved animal subjects in unique ways: Dupre and Broz opt for surreal, exaggerated forms that break away from realistic depictions, while Benavidez artfully transforms a small kitten into a vibrant piñata. Similarly, Sano meticulously carves expressive dog figures from small pieces of camphor wood, which she then embellishes with oil paints.
On the other hand, Sanchez and Mophos draw from more traditional methods as they incorporate human influences into their artworks. Sanchez prefers the unmarked pages of sketchbooks, whereas Mophos scavenges the streets of São Paulo for architectural remnants, turning them into jagged yet lively canvases.
Their works collectively portray companionship as a vital link between the realms of nature and culture. The artists perceive their animal companions not only as creations of their own interactions but also as independent beings equipped with distinct personalities.
Companions will officially open its doors on September 27, 2025, at Joy Machine. You are warmly invited to join us for an opening reception from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturday.
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