Art and snakes…sure. I reached out to Nora Berman, founder of Hisssss, and luckily she was kind enough to answer some very elementary questions about why and what etc. I think it should be obvious by now that the people I like to connect with are truly independents and creating how they want to create. Nora is a prime example of that. Lookin forward to seeing what else she does through Hisssss.
Here ya go!
Love your gallery, how did you come up with this and why?
NB: It's an experiment. Snakes are agents of change, so I'm curious what happens when you put art and snakes together. Initially it was just about making my own art for the snakes to enjoy, but I also wanted that to be a collaborative and an evolving process. So, I decided to invite other artists and have it be an experimental art space.
Another motivation for Hisssss comes from my desire to offer an opportunity for interaction with reptiles outside of institutions—and in a domestic setting. It's not common to have access to reptiles. I want the gallery to support the sovereignty of the animals. The gallery is an occasion to learn about reptiles, experience them, but within the context of art.
What’s the future hold for Hisssss? Consistent shows or more casual?
NB: There is going to be a performance by Kensaku Shinohara soon.
The future programming is considered but also leaves space for being “random.” The next show is another big group show, but then after we will be doing more focused presentations, pairing two artists. My plan is to show more historical works.
Silly question but did I see a snake roaming free while the show was happening or people checking it out ?
NB: Yes, at one point my white ball python Elektra was roaming around.
Did the artists in the show make work site (snake tank) specific ?
NB: Yes, and in the future artists are making works that the snakes can use - as little structures to hide, water bowls, sunning platforms. John Garcia's text work was made directly onto the tank's glass doors. Playful art works best in the space, also works that the snakes can inhabit. For instance, I see the snakes resting in Bernhard Hegglin's ceramic sculpture of two hands --often! It's their new favorite spot.
Who should we have on next ?
NB: The Wolford House, Gaylord Fine Arts or P.E.O.P.L.E. are three spaces in L.A. that I recommend.
Linkage Report
Brendan Dugan (Karma Gallery) & Ellen Langan’s home …. Wow! HERE.
Jonathan Monk x Baldessari T from Boot Foundation is a good one.
Who is in Ohio and wants to shop for us? Pace Gallery sibling’s home…double wow. HERE.
Hi- I live in Bexley! Will def go check this estate sale out tomorrow