Empty Spaces Between Desire and Fantasy, 2009
Palm thorns, dried bottle gourd, dried pumpkin, fabric, cotton thread, aluminum wire
84 x 76 inches
Found biological elements and sacred materials are painstakingly stitched and assembled to create works like Empty Spaces Between Desire and Fantasy.This work is based on the seductive aspects of nature and performs a critique of the darker side to human sensuality.
Shivan emphasizes the erotic quality of botanical forms while referencing sado-masochistic sex toys. The organic forms appear inviting from afar, however, when approached take on a threatening quality.