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Cecilia Bengolea

Photos by Lance Gerber

Photos by Lance Gerber

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From the time of cavemen, through the Pre-Columbian era, up until contemporary animistic perspectives, humans have associated with animals to explore fantasy and signify stature. The intent of hybridizing humankind in mythologic chimeras has existed throughout history. Bengolea’s performance piece, Mosquito Net, is not a quest for the universal beauty of nature, but a display of social street dance to invoke the spirit of animals and nature.

This piece is a consideration of how humans and animals observe each other, including both real and imaginary animal. Bengolea also includes actual dance poses from her established performances, where she and dancers from Jamaica express animals they feel connected to.

Hybridization has been less successful in scientific study than in the wild. This suggests an evolutionary response to pressure imposed by humans. This natural hybridization is likely important for the creation of new species.

This piece also includes a free-standing sculptural work that synthesizes the animistic aspects of dance with her interest in the Salton Sea. Combining aspects of her dance with hybridized animals she has created a bestiary of the ancient and modern, the sacred and the profane collaged into a landscape of both hope and despair. Bengolea’s collage continues this tradition engaging the audience in the interactive dance of the imagination.

Bengolea is inspired by philosopher Baruch Spinoza, who proffers to move beyond the state of servitude to make a difference and to emancipate the joy of composing ourselves with others and expand our capacities to actualize our passions.

Title: Mosquito Net
Location: North Shore Beach and Yacht Club
33.5176, -115.93849

Commissioned by Desert X in collaboration with Faena Art.

Desert X 2019 is permanently closed. The artworks have been removed.