Kiah Celeste’s latest exhibition, “To Be Held for a Long Time,” at Swivel Gallery showcases her unique talent for transforming found objects into profound works of art. Unlike other artists in this genre, Celeste’s approach is marked by an elegant aesthetic and a refusal to rely on sentimentality. Her sculptures breathe new life into industrial and utilitarian objects that would otherwise be discarded, giving them a new identity and purpose.
In her second show at Swivel, Celeste introduces framed wall reliefs to her repertoire, adding a new dimension to her abstract sculptures. One standout piece, “Standing Sideways” (2025), features navy blue fabric stretched over the soles of geta sandals, creating a visually striking juxtaposition of textures and forms. The result is a captivating disruption of a minimalist monochrome aesthetic.
Throughout the exhibition, Celeste’s ability to create cohesive sculptural forms from disparate materials is evident. In works like “Holy Mug” (2025) and “Untitled (Heart)” (2025), she combines everyday objects like mugs and bike seats with unexpected elements to evoke organic forms and textures. The result is a series of tactile sculptures that blur the line between the synthetic and the organic, inviting viewers to reflect on the fragility and resilience of the human body.
One of the most striking pieces in the exhibition is “Antebellum Pink” (2024), where pink fiberglass insulation peeks through slashes in pale pink fabric, creating a visceral and provocative visual metaphor for the human body. The piece’s ambiguous imagery challenges viewers to confront their own perceptions of beauty and decay, while also celebrating the imperfections and scars that make us human.
Overall, “To Be Held for a Long Time” is a testament to Celeste’s skill as an artist and her ability to transform everyday objects into profound works of art. The exhibition will be on display at Swivel Gallery until June 1st, offering viewers a chance to experience Celeste’s unique vision firsthand.
