Stone House Art Gallery is pleased to present Predacious– a new single channel video installation by Marina Shaltout. In her newest work, Shaltout presents a collection of sculptural wall pieces to accompany a video wherein she portrays an overtly feminine creature as she preys upon and devours phallic-shaped foods. Shaltout’s character utilizes the natural phenomenon of aggressive mimicry, in which one species deliberately mimics a more docile species in order to catch its prey. By adopting this predator persona, Shaltout creates a metaphorical backdrop for the malicious intent that is socially assigned to those who identify as women or femme. Terms such as “tease,” “temptress,” “seductress,” or “thirst-trap” are influential to the work’s transgressive interpretation of such word’s intent to create shame for those existing in their own body in both real and virtual spaces. By showing this creature catch and devour her prey, Shaltout highlights the irrational anxieties of castration, emasculation, and rejection that result from confident and strong feminine/femme energy.

Predacious is on view at SHAG now thru the month of July, with a closing reception to be held on August 4th, 2022 from 6-8pm. Check our highlights weekly for available viewing dates and DM or email us to schedule an appointment.