shadow dolls
A cage made of chicken wire is a container for 32 identical paper doll figures. Created as a hanging mobile, the dolls are cut from various photos showing intimate glimpses of Maray's personal experiences and represent social constructs that comprise individual identity. Portions of the dictionary definition of the word 'shadow' printed on the back of each doll suggest less conscious aspects of human identity. The dolls are connected by a transparent string to hang and appear to float in a kinetic row, suggesting order and insecurity, simultaneously. When stacked, the dolls fit in the cage through which a hole offers an exit, only when all 32 are evenly aligned. The work's title refers to the hole as the 33rd definition, an open shape that questions human identity, permanence, limits, and aspects of redefining.
Gateway's Heliport Gallery, Silver Spring MD, Student Show 2006