Images of comfort, sensuality, familial values, and deep emotions are spread among the desks and chairs in the library at OISE. Preparing for their upcoming tests and essays, students sit in the warm quiet of the room seemingly unaware of the art that is pushing off the walls and into their space.
Set up in one of the sunniest corners of the library are approximately 20 clay sculptures by London, Ontario-based artist R. Bruce Flowers. These meticulously detailed clay sculptures are hollowed out at the back so that what looks to be an extremely heavy clay statue is actually light enough to hang on a wall. The exhibit, titled Clay Pride, was brought to the U of T campus through an initiative by campus group LGBTOUT to improve queer visibility on campus.
Each of the pieces is a representation of queer culture as it is infrequently seen. And while each figure is represented in the nude, it is done with power, grace, and extreme care for the subject matter. Additionally, a poem written by Flowers accompanies each sculpture to add to the depth of the image.
“My work explores the crafting of new non-pornographic expressions of same-sex intimacy,” explains Flowers. “My sculptures show the public images of same-sex marriage, same-sex intimacy and same-sex parenting… The sheer fact that the works are ‘queer’ art in a public space is important to familiarize and legitimize us to the straight community. The queer emphasis must no longer be seen in a threatening or sensationalistic light as has been done in the past,” he says.
There is a tremendous range of imagery that is presented within the exhibit. Dance of the Goddess 1 is an example of fiercely powerful women shown together with a bold expression. Next to it is Tender Moment, a much more sensual display of affection in which we’re shown two older gentlemen. Sheltering Arms depicts a father and child together. The realistic expression of these figures and the warmness they display are indicative of what the exhibit represents.
When asked about his choice to portray a wide range of age in his sculptures, Flowers responds: “These images are an attempt to highlight the beauty, vitality, and desirability of older men. And to point out the common success of older/younger couples in intimate relationships. Love can be found at each stage of life.”
Clay Pride is on display at the OISE Library (252 Bloor St. W.) until
March 31.
