As a Fem, non-binary person, I am often resisting normative spoon-fed gender ideologies. It took me a long time to realize that I can look however I want and be the gender I know I am. In my life, I’ve struggled with self-image and body dysmorphia along with gender dysphoria. I have moved through life performing for others, so I didn’t have to encounter my internal self. I thought it would be easier this way.
In this work, I use time to transform my desire to please others. I invite the tension of uncomfortability to teach me how sweet it can be to move through the struggles of life focused on my desires. Each spoon of sugar I carry up the stairs possesses an invitation to discover something new about myself. Each time I powder my face, I embrace an opportunity to consider and reconstruct normative gender expectations. The marks I leave on the rope indicate a collaboration of asking for and accepting help along my journey. This performance exhibits an intimate journey of internal transformation and personal discovery, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and offering hope to others on a similar journey.
Artist Statement, Holly Timpener
A Spoon Full of Sugar is curated by Dr. Toby Lawrence, AGGV Curator of Contemporary Art, in collaboration with Camosun College Visual Arts Department.
LEARN MORE
This performance will be preceded by an off-site Artist Talk with Holly Timpener at Camosun College.
Feature Image: Holly Timpener, Trans Bible Readings, 2022, performance, Place Fort LaTour, Saint John NB, photographed by Shelby Delune. Courtesy of the artist.