(by?) Ulyana Sergeenko
Brocaded Coat
2010 (?)
A masterwork of embroidered finery, this floor-length robe resembles the fiery hide of a predatory beast, beautifully formidable and dangerous. Every one of its threads undulates and slithers in unison with the steady prowling of its mistress, as does each hair lining the fur of a calculating lynx or leopardess. As a work of art, its energy lies in its bold proclamation of presence rather than in a sly, survivalist mimicry of its surroundings, an ability which this robe proudly lacks. Its will to live (or indeed, its method of hunt) uses this energy of personal aesthetics to pacify any reservations or doubts felt by its audience (its prey). It draws in its victims under the false pretences of innocent charm; it toys with their weakness to want a little bit more, to see what lays beneath the décor. This coat trickily plays a game tailored to its own advantage, engrossing all who pause in its shadow - savagely slaying all who melt in its wake.
