Katie Whyte
she/her
Vita Ante Acta - A Life Done Before
The focus of this work emerged from delving into the hidden world of museum storage spaces which contrast sharply with public-facing galleries. Through the use of glitching processes, narratives are introduced into digital representations of plaster casts. Juxtaposing projection and analog technology, the tension between pristine exhibitions and forgotten storage spaces is illustrated.
The installation explores the dichotomy between the ‘Winged Victory’ statue in The Louvre, Paris and its overlooked plaster-cast counterpart in the RHA basement. The ‘Winged Victory’ once welcomed pilgrims and now greets visitors in The Louvre. However, its plaster cast twin languishes in obscurity, damaged and without wings, unable to fulfil its intended purpose of welcoming anyone to its inaccessible space. Through this exploration, the work aims to foster dialogue and reflection on the enduring impact of colonialism on our understanding of art, history, and identity.
Winged Victory, video piece, duration 13 minutes
Winged Victory Cast, projection
Research
Uncovered Bust, located in basement of the RHA
Covered Bust, located in basement of the RHA
Storage, Basement of the RHA