Helen Chadwick Piss Flowers 1991-2 |IA|

The sculpture pieces titled ‘Piss Flowers’ by Helen Chadwick created in 1991 to 1992 is a series of casts that even though created through a thought-out process, are a product of chance and lack of control. They created the initial shapes by using the natural act of ‘pissing’ in snow. This is not something that can be completely controlled as the power, spread and aim aren’t always controllable. However, what the couple were able to plan out and decide was how they would each participate in the process. Chadwick would create the biggest parts, whilst Notarius would add the smaller detail. This is very important as it suggests a vision that Chadwick may have on gender roles in society. The ‘biggest impact’ is created by the woman rather than a man showing that it can be a man supporting a woman rather than the other way round, going against the stereotype of women being housewives and tending to all men’s needs. This could also be a representation of the impact that women have and will have on the world and history. This idea is supported by the fact that this was a time when young British artists were emerging, growing in confidence to stand up for what they believe in. Despite the female significance, it is important to notice that the piece was created by a woman and a man: showing cooperation and togetherness.

Chadwick had to answer a question of how to engage and interest an audience enough to investigate this social discussion. The answer to that could be the gross nature of the process of urinating. The beautiful outcome does not match something so revolting. This can be a metaphor that Chadwick is also using to show her view on history. It was ‘disgusting’ in treatment of women, but this could be turned around creating something beautiful.

In summary, the technique used was orignal and very creative; the context was interesting and the outcome was suitable to the message presented by the artist. Do I agree with it? That’s a different question.

The Gab’ Eye