Rose Finn-Kelcey, a prominent British artist, gained recognition in the early 1970s for her inventive use of humor in performance and feminist art. Her works often explore themes of life, death, spirituality, and gender roles, emphasizing alchemy and transformation. An exhibition titled 'Suit of Lights' at the Kate MacGarry Gallery showcases her exploration of various powerful motifs, including the cultural figure of the matador. The artist's performances have taken place in diverse public settings and challenge traditional perceptions of art and identity.
The title, perhaps a nod to Scottish psychiatrist, RD Laing's 1960 classic exploration of madness, The Divided Self, is an example of a work staged in a public space.
As the artist paces out the dance of the matador, she raises her arms in the shape of horns and at once becomes man and animal.
In this performance work, the artist focuses on the cliched and cultural figure of the matador, gambling with both life and money.
Finn-Kelcey spent months immersing herself in the lore and costume of the bullfighter and the animal world for her transformative works.
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