(un)happy objects is group exhibition curated by Adrienne Crossman featuring the work of Madelyne Beckles, Shellie Zhang, Vida Beyer, and kaythi. Drawing on Sara Ahmed’s concept of the unhappy object, these artists take on subjects often seen as “difficult,” such as queer identity, cultural heritage, race and feminism, through the recontextualization of cultural iconography. While some may side-step such topics in order to maintain the niceties of the status quo and attempt to avoid discomfort, the works invite conversations that refuse a separation between the personal and the political. Through the tactical use of humour, pop culture references, and materials such as hooked rugs and neon lights, the works in (un)happy objects provide unconventional entry points into less “happy” topics.
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