IN THE BAG

How can we be sure?

In The Bag, 2010 & 2026
Exotic skin, bag hardware and surgical equipment
Unique works (set of 12)
Various sizes
© Mark Humphrey

“IN THE BAG EXPLOITS THE IDIOM THAT SUCCESS, VICTORY OR A DESIRED OUTCOME IS GUARANTEED. ULTRA-LUXURY SKIN BAGS ARE DISSECTED LIKE SPECIMENS IN A BIOLOGY LAB, EXPOSING WHAT LIES BENEATH THE SURFACE OF OBJECTS ASSOCIATED WITH STATUS, COMFORT AND CERTAINTY.

THE CUSTOM-MADE BAGS TAKE THEIR FORMS FROM NATURE; BUTTERFLIES, TULIPS AND ORCHIDS, TRANSFORMING FAMILIAR SYMBOLS OF BEAUTY INTO VESSELS FOR CONFRONTING DARKER REALITIES, FROM SEXUAL VIOLENCE AND ABUSE TO THE DESTRUCTION OF THE NATURAL WORLD.

SPLIT OPEN, STRETCHED, PIERCED AND EXAMINED, THEY BECOME LESS ABOUT WHAT WE CARRY AND MORE ABOUT WHAT WE CONCEAL. THE DISSECTIONS EXPOSE THE FRAGILITY AND VULNERABILITY BENEATH BEAUTY, LUXURY AND SAFETY, REVEALING THAT THE POSSIBILITY OF HARM CAN EXIST BENEATH EVEN THE MOST REASSURING EXTERIOR.”

Mark Humphrey

Orchid Clutch Bag no1, 2010 & 2026
Exotic skin, bag hardware and surgical equipment
Unique work (set of 2)
H21 x W15 x D15cm (each)
© Mark Humphrey