E.M. Alysse Bowd |1Milk 2 Sugar

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E.M. Alysse Bowd, “Sweet Tooth and Baby Teeth,” 2023

watercolour and graphite (courtesy of the gallery)

Reception and performance: September 12 from 6 – 8 pm

The Art Gallery of St. Albert (part of the Arts and Heritage Foundation) is showcasing its newest exhibition in the beautiful main gallery space on August 15. 1 Milk 2 Sugar by Red Deer’s E.M. Alysse Bowd offers a rich view of motherhood, surrendering control over one’s body for the survival of another.

Bowd utilizes her artistic practice to explore identity, womanhood, the female body and societal expectations. The exhibition delves into the depth and complexity of motherhood.

The heart of 1 Milk 2 Sugar is a collection of drawings that adorn the walls, reminiscent of half-remembered memories. These drawings vividly capture early motherhood's details, moments of isolation and deep connection, exhaustion and marvel. They portray the surrender of control over one’s body for the survival of another, fulfilling a need rooted in instinct and intuition.

Along with the drawings are small ceramic sculptures arranged in a circle on the floor. From familiar objects like chairs and houses to more whimsical elements like cows and clouds, these sculptures embody a sense of intimacy. Crafted during dedicated studio time, they have witnessed the countless small moments of motherhood, presenting a wide lens that infuses the everyday with a touch of magic.

“With honesty and raw expression, Bowd illustrates the complex beauty and inherent friction of motherhood”, says Art Gallery of St. Albert Curator, Emily Baker. “The title encapsulates the essence of her experience, weaving a thematic thread that ties the entire exhibition together.”

• In-person tour: September 4 at noon

• Virtual tour: September 10 at noon on Facebook Live