Exploring the rich history of hitching posts dating back to the 1800s, we uncover a narrative woven with threads of utility and community. These sturdy objects, strategically placed in towns and common areas, served as secure points to tether horses during social events and gatherings. San Francisco-based artist Windy Chien breathes new life into this functional object through her ongoing series, aptly named Hitching Post.
Chien finds fascination in interdependent forms, highlighting the delicate balance of elements needed to maintain integrity. Just as a hitching post relies on the object it’s tied to, social spaces and gatherings depend on collective presence for cohesion.
Since 2019, Chien has been commissioned to create unique pieces for various communal spaces, including airports, offices, houses, and ranches. Using wooden supports of varying lengths and intricately knotting ropes, she crafts flowing and geometric compositions that adorn walls and exterior facades.
Combining elements from her Circuit Board series with other techniques, Chien recently completed a large installation in a Los Angeles office stairwell. The installation consists of four works, each spanning 20 feet wide and featuring a gradient of six hues. In April, the artist anticipates showcasing several works alongside Ruth Asawa’s retrospective at San Francisco MOMA. For more of Chien’s work, visit her website and follow her on Instagram.
