Wilmer Wilson IV's Political Art at VOLTA NY

Wilmer Wilson IV appropriates objects common to his socio-economic experience, manipulating their original intention to absurd degrees. For the three durational performances mounted at VOLTA NY, the artist creates a second skin by sculpturally covering his entire body with stickers. Wilson then flays his skin of stickers in an intensive act of self-immolation.

Employing printed materials endorsed by the American government or political system, the performances engage issues surrounding freedom, authenticity, and vulnerability. Voted uses ‘I Voted’ stickers, typically handed out after a citizen has cast a ballot; Legalize uses legal notary seals; and Henry Box Brown uses postage stamps.

The Self Portrait photographs, which document the performances, add further depth through their sensitivity tobody language and ego.

Performances

Thursday, March 8th: 11am – 7pm
Friday, March 9th: 11am – 7pm
Saturday, March 10th: 11am – 7pm

Wilmer Wilson IV's work may also be seen Spring 2012:

Conner Contemporary Art - solo exhibition: Domestic Exchange, March 17 - May 5, 2012. Washington, DC. Performance, Saturday March 17, 2012 5 to 8pm.

5 x 5, Washington, DC - public art project supported by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities. April 2012. performance information to be announced.