The exhibition is presented in two parts: the entry is an installation of archived personal and rescued objects presented like a storefront window. This installation shares a view into my creative space, albeit an idealized and curated version of my working studio. By arranging these objects in such a way, I invite viewers into a deeply personal space, as if you are in my studio alone, allowing for personal connections to my collections.
The interior of the gallery contains large, detailed portraits of keepsakes given to me by my mother. Each photograph is given a written story as to its origins in a very matter-of-fact way. The isolated image of a doll focuses attention to the passage of time of its life. Stay with Me elevates and cherishes these subjects and the stories reinforce the unreliable nature of memories.
Objects and photographs both facilitate memories for me that show the passage of time and their inaccuracies. Because of this, it gives me the place to rewrite my history. Whether it be purging objects with negative memories, destroying photographs or treasuring objects.
Some collections replace lost possessions and others play to my previously unreachable childhood desires. Other well-worn objects and found images have no direct connection to myself other than I found them and fell in love. When I welcome a rescued object into my life, I rarely know any of its personal history, its life starts anew with me.
Kayla Bauer, 2021