Through her work, Emmy Skensved investigates how social exchange and interdependence are necessary for human survival. She is drawn to the formats of “outdoor” or “adventure” gear, because of the way these objects speak to survival and relate directly to the body in their scale, shape or intended use. For her installations, she meticulously hand sews forms resembling sleeping bags, hammocks, and the like, and arranges these together in order to represent social gatherings or exchanges between people.
During her time at Tabakalera, Skensved will develop a series of large-scale sculptures, made from aluminum armatures and synthetic fabrics, entitled “Architecture of Intersubjectivities.” These pieces will make reference to various deployable structures, including different types of portable shelter like tents and portaledges.
For this project, Skensved draws her inspiration from studies done by psychologist Erica Boothby on empathy and the power of shared experience, in addition to the musings of philosopher Byung-Chul Han on community and ritual, as well as theorist Carlos Vara Sanchez’s writings on togetherness and affect.
Whereas her previous installations touched upon themes of belonging, or made reference to social exchange, this new series is intended to facilitate gathering and communion, effectively embodying the topics Skensved aims to address.
