'Arrangements' by Quay Quinn Wolf at 315 Gallery, New York

315 Gallery is pleased to present Arrangements, Quay Quinn Wolf’s first solo show at the gallery. Wolf’s new body of work consists of six sculptures that engage both floor and wall. Utilizing a range of materials, Wolf’s practice continues to explore themes of loss, memory and time.

Growing up, Wolf’s mother worked towards a degree in mortuary science. After classes, they would often talk about her studies, discussing topics ranging from embalming to makeup to casket selection. With this primer, a consideration of the relationship between archival and non-archival materials became central to Wolf’s practice.

The pairing of ephemeral materials with culturally rich signifiers casts into relief the humanistic and absurd behaviors of society. A funeral wreath rests upon the wall. It’s a durational sculpture that bears witness to the show and acts as its timekeeper. The flowers will dehydrate, lose pigment, droop and fall prey to gravity. At the end of the show, much like at the end of a period of mourning, the flowers will be replaced and the process will start again for someone new. Unlike the mind atrophying and body decaying, the ritual process of mourning carries over time.

A velvet blazer with a carnation filled jug atop occupies the floor. That same velvet also lines the insides of the caskets at the funeral home. A pink carnation flowers from a tube filled with baby oil. It is believed that pink carnations first appeared on this earth following the tears shed by the Virgin Mary at the site of the crucifixion. They have come to symbolize a mother’s undying love.

Arrangements is both an order of operations following the death of a loved one, as well as the considered presentation to honor the life of those who are no longer with us. Wolf’s work appears emotionally invest- ed in giving someone what they deserve, an occasion for consideration.