Reclaiming Wonder.

Originating in the 14th century, cabinets of wonder are staged spaces where collectors display multiple objects: exotic animals, preserved by taxidermy, hunted by the collector or by paid hunters; religious icons; natural specimens including seashells, animal skulls and human bones; and other eclectic objects. In this context, these curiosities are mounted and displayed as trophies, oddities and symbols of grandiosity, or as the results of scientific experiments. In unison with this tradition and in contrast with it, the contemporary practice of art installation offers artist the possibility to construct spaces and experiences that both extend and subvert the history and tradition of the cabinet of wonder.

Ingrid Barreneche

Ingrid Barreneche