BAG, 2019
Used leather vest, chains, metal eyes, whip tail, golden spray paint, 41 x 23 x 23 cm / ´Let´s not..´
The piece BAG was exhibited in the solo show ‘Let’s not..’. Having undergone a process of conversion and transformation, the work is now simply titled BAG, as it reveals itself only in it‘s current state.
A vintage rocker’s leather vest with traces of torn off patches was transformed into a handbag and decorated with metal eyes, chains and straps. The handbag is a replica of the model ‘SOHO Interlocking’ by the fashion brand Gucci, a certain dominatrix published this particular model in the wishlist on her website. The wishlist links directly to mail order, making it easy for clients to purchase these items as gifts. BAG is inspired by the relationship between dominatrix M. C. and her client, the sergeant of an outlaw motorcycle gang.
The front of the bag carries the Gucci logo, two intertwined G’s. The ultimate symbol of a certain form and idea of masculinity is therefore transformed into an object that just as explicitly represents a symbol for a specific form of femininity.
The former vest is unrecognizable in its final state.
Photo: Tamara Lorenz, Thomas Weidenhaupt, Selma Gültoprak
Installation view: Martinetz