At the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) in New York, artist Saya Woolfalk’s profound exhibition, “Empathic Universe,” invites viewers into a kaleidoscopic exploration of identity, connection, and the transformative power of art. Through a vibrant fusion of cultures—African, African American, Japanese, European, and Brazilian—Woolfalk presents a compelling vision that urges a deeper understanding of empathy and a celebration of womanhood. This immersive experience transcends conventional artistic boundaries, offering a vital space for introspection and connection.
Central to this exhibit are Woolfalk’s captivating “chimera” figures, life-sized and larger-than-life female forms that seem to defy gravity, appearing to float as if emerging from another plane of existence. These enigmatic figures, derived from genetically distinct individuals within a whimsical science fiction universe, burst with vibrant color and rich, layered textures, captivating the eye and sparking the imagination. Their presence establishes a dreamlike atmosphere, drawing visitors into a realm where reality intertwines with fantasy.
Woolfalk’s “Empathic Universe” is meticulously crafted to be truly immersive and interactive, encouraging close inspection of her intricate creations. Viewers are invited to become intimately acquainted with her diverse array of vivid imagery, compelling symbolism, and rich folklore. Her artistic language extends beyond traditional mediums, encompassing innovative garment-based sculptures, dynamic video installations, expressive paintings, detailed works on paper, and captivating performances, all designed to dismantle cultural barriers and foster a shared narrative. This immersive experience, a hallmark of major art exhibitions, expands the very definition of contemporary art.
The emergence of “Empathics,” as Woolfalk terms these figures and concepts, is particularly timely in an era grappling with increasing societal fragmentation. As a concept, empathy, first introduced by psychologist Edward B. Titchener in 1909, derives from the German “einfühlung,” meaning “feeling into.” Art, in its capacity to stir profound emotions and expand perspectives, serves as a powerful conduit for cultural empathy, enabling individuals to transcend their personal entanglements and comprehend the experiences of others.
Woolfalk’s work profoundly illustrates how artistic expression can cultivate a heightened sense of empathy. By presenting a universe where diverse influences converge, she encourages viewers to explore interconnectedness, challenging conventional thought and fostering a broader understanding of human experience. This artistic approach becomes a gentle yet firm call to recognize and appreciate the multifaceted nature of compassion in an increasingly complex world.
Experiencing Woolfalk’s otherworldly installations provides an oasis for the mind and spirit, offering a reprieve from the clamor of urban life. The exhibition is not merely a display of static art; it is a living dialogue, exemplified by Woolfalk’s conversations with collaborators like MAD Curator Alexandra Schwartz, underscoring the collaborative and evolving nature of her creative process.
For Woolfalk, the “Empathic Universe” is more than just fiction; it is a deeply personal ethos that she endeavors to embody in her own life and relationships. Her work is a powerful testament to feminism, female empowerment, ecological awareness, and the profound importance of generosity. This philosophy extends to creating a supportive community around her art, enabling her to share its message widely.
The artist’s firebrand feminism, expressed through aesthetic activism, is vividly demonstrated by her fierce female figures and their dynamic interaction with the spaces they inhabit. Influenced by her studies with Paraguayan-American artist Faith Wilding, Woolfalk crafted these “monstrous feminine bodies” as early as 2002-2004, reflecting her personal relationship with her own body and the multifaceted nature of feminine desire. This powerful exploration firmly anchors her work in contemporary feminist art.
