Adrian Romeo | Every Day is a Day at the Races When You're Mentally and Physically Ill

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Adrian Romeo, “Big Hands (detail),” 2024

thrifted fabric and thread, 71 x 91.5 cm (courtesy of the Gallery)

Adrian Romeo: Every Day is a Day at the Races When You're Mentally and Physically Ill. Through interactive sculptures and witty textile works, Romeo explores the human condition and reflects on her own mental and physical struggles. Central to the exhibition is a wooden racetrack comprised of five sculptural wind-up toys, each symbolizing the artist’s personal battles: depression, fatigue, chronic pain, insomnia, and self-doubt. Visitors are encouraged to choose a racer to send down the track.

Accompanying the racetrack are brightly coloured, hand-sewn textile banners with tongue-in-cheek slogans including: “I used to hate how big my hands are. Now I’m glad I can hold so much.” These works use humour and whimsy to reframe difficult subjects, creating a welcoming space for open conversations about mental and physical health.

Adrian Romeo received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Thompson Rivers University in 2024, along with the TRU Medal in BFA.