Victoire Gonzalvez

„Translating Bodies“ explore and dissect the notion of purity in all its forms. From a hygienic, moral or religious perspective, the exhibition challenges the fallacious dimension inherent to this concept, the different meanings and symbolism that have been attributed to it throughout history, and assessing its contemporary relevance. Whether over-emphasized or misused, the theories associated with the idea of pureness and the multiple connotations they carried reveal a certain ambiguity. Questioning at the same time expectations linked to the institution of marriage, body conservation – the art of embalming, virginal chastity, societal ideals that mystify eternal youth – and a prophylaxis that nowadays would appear as normative, Victoire Gonzalvez weaves together scientific considerations, popular or religious beliefs and thoughts on well-being and care in an installation that is as seductive as it is threatening […]

Text by Camille Velluet, 

November 2023