Chicago-based artist Selva Aparicio will be showcasing her first solo museum exhibition at the DePaul Art Museum this spring. The exhibition, titled "In Memory Of," explores the complex issues of domestic violence, memory, death, intimacy, and mourning. Curated by Ionit Behar, the exhibition aims to shed light on the blurred boundaries between public and private in the context of domestic violence.

Behar describes the exhibition as "an emotional exploration of domestic life" and emphasizes its importance in inviting audiences to reflect on the complexities of domestic life through the eyes of children and women. "In Memory Of" goes beyond the traditional confines of art spaces by transforming the first floor of the museum into a domestic setting. Through site-specific installations and sculptures that incorporate natural elements such as dandelion seeds, rose petals, lettuce leaves, and taxidermy, Aparicio encourages viewers to contemplate the beauty found in the ephemeral.

Aparicio explains her artistic approach, stating, "I am interested in working in that space of death and decomposition...to reflect on memories and what they contain." Drawing inspiration from her upbringing on the outskirts of Barcelona, Spain, where she explored the ruins of Catalonia, Aparicio's work reflects her deep connection with nature and the transitory nature of existence.

"In Memory Of" promises to be a thought-provoking and immersive experience that challenges perceptions and prompts reflection, according to Behar. Aparicio's artistic achievements include prestigious awards such as the Pritzker Pucker Family Foundation's Artadia Award, the 3Arts HMS Fund Award, and the Burke Prize. Her global reach and influence in the art world are further demonstrated by her current projects, including two outdoor permanent sculpture commissions for Belgium's Beaufort 2024 Triennale and the Heraclea Archeological Park in Italy.

In addition to the exhibition, there will be accompanying events such as a talk by internationally acclaimed author Christina Rivera Garza, a poetry workshop in partnership with the Poetry Foundation, and a series of performances by DePaul's School of Music and The Theatre School based on Aparicio's artworks.

The DePaul Art Museum, located at 935 W. Fullerton Ave., invites visitors to explore "In Memory Of" from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Admission to the museum is free, and additional information can be found online or by calling 773-325-7506.

Source: Ionit Behar, DePaul Art Museum Curator

Contact: Russell Dorn (rdorn@depaul.edu), NaBeela Washington (nwashin9@depaul.edu)