In this decidedly feminist body of work, Panas includes a selection of new photographic and video works, continuing her decades long and wide ranging exploration of portraiture. Sleeping Beauty departs from her previous projects in that subjects seem to actively collaborate in the creation of their images. Individuals confront the viewer, meeting the glare of the camera with a penetrating stare. Each visage bears a lifetime of experiences, while embodying the resilience and indomitable spirit we’ve come to associate with the #metoo movement. Each woman, a strong, unintimidated individual, refusing to be denied agency or personhood.
Sixteen framed photographs are complimented by video installations displayed on monitors and projected on walls throughout the gallery. Video works interspersed between photos act as tableaux vivants, complimenting the photographs. Each time-based works shows unmoving women, with a steely gaze, projecting composed confidence. The ambient soundtrack is the wind, birds, and the sounds of the surrounding forest.
In conjunction with the exhibition, the College is hosting an interdisciplinary panel discussion entitled Feminist perspectives: sex and gender in the creative economy and beyond, featuring Panas and faculty from the College’s Psychology, English, Art and Art History Departments.
Lydia Panas – Sleeping Beauty
February 20 – April 13 2019
February 20 – April 13 2019
Martin Art Gallery
Muhlenberg College
Muhlenberg College
Baker Center for the Arts
2400 Chew Street
Allentown, PA 18104
