Whiteness A deeper look

Suzie Harrison

Whiteness -- the word seems simple enough, but deeper insight brings

up anthropological, societal and cultural issues that are being

explored through art at the Laguna Art Museum.

“Whiteness, A Wayward Construction,” looks at this complex topic

through a variety of media by mostly California-based artists whose

work explores representations of whiteness and how it is used as an

instrument of power.

The museum’s curator Tyler Stallings said the theme for the

exhibit came from a series of shows loosely based on how identity is

constructed through outside influences.

He said that it looks into a doctrine of beliefs, skin color as a

privilege. The exhibit is divided into three sections. The first

section is called “White Out” and it examines how whites do and do

not see themselves, looking at both the biological and the societal

characteristics that define whiteness.

Another, “Mirror, Mirror ...” looks at the exterior traits that

identify one as white and the advantages they imply.

The third, “Graying Whiteness,” explores the complex relationship

between individual and collective identities in relationship to

representations of whiteness.

“In the lobby is ‘Mulatto Nation’ the idea of mixed heritage, some

have light skin pass as white,” Stallings said. “They would have to

make a choice, which is a dilemma, choosing white privilege would

mean denying the other side of self for that individual.”

Stallings pointed out that this exhibit also intermingles with

popular culture and exhibits such as the recent “Surf Culture”

exhibit and how identities and culture change over time.

Artists Myrella Moses and Eric Mondriaan from Newport Beach are

the only Orange County exhibitors in the show with collaborative

pieces Moses also has some solo work. The duo have been working

together for 12 years.

He draws and paints while she sculpts, and together the pieces

have a unique and powerful way of communicating.

“We wanted to give an ominous feel,” Moses said. “Beauty lures you

in but it’s a Pandora’s box because, do you really want to know?”

Los Angeles-based artist Millie Wilson had several pieces in the

exhibit.

One of which was a huge 7-foot white wig that is a reference to

colonialism.

“I wanted to open up on all levels involving and considering race

and class,” Wilson said. “I wanted to make it big and ugly.”

She likes to take risks in her work and get people’s attention by

stereotyping stereotypes and isn’t afraid of the backlash when

looking at issues of gender identity and sexuality. Wilson said she

is thrilled to be a part of the exhibit.

“Tyler’s really smart and takes a lot of chances,” I like the way

Laguna and the museum is willing to take chances.”

“Whiteness, A Wayward Construction” runs through July 6 at Laguna

Art Museum, at 307 Cliff Drive. Information: 494-8971