Elana Mann: Bellows and Quakes / Museum of Art and History (MOAH), Lancaster, CA

Elana Mann: Bellows and Quakes
Solo exhibition during FORMATION exhibitions
Museum of Art and History (MOAH), Lancaster, CA
January 13 - April 14, 2024
Artist Elana Mann explores the power of the collective voice and the politics of listening through sculpture, sound, and community engagement. She is the granddaughter of a chemist who worked on the Manhattan Project and helped invent the world’s first atomic bomb. This familial legacy lies heavy on her shoulders and drives her commitment to non-violence. Her art practice revolves around the idea that the act of listening can be a catalyst for social change. Mann’s works are twofold. She creates sculptural musical instruments, such as horns and rattles, and then activates these pieces through performances. Mann’s artworks highlight the power of sound and enable political activism.
Constructed with a variety of materials, Mann’s rattles, noisemakers, trumpets, and other instruments are tools that galvanize the sonic energy of her work. From large fiberglass horns to smaller handheld ceramic rattles, each of these artworks act as their own distinct voice. When played together, they make up a unique collective unit; a synergistic roar that embodies the voices of those who strive for social change.
www.elanamann....
Video by L.A. Art Documents / www.laartdocuments.com
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[@dizzydean2023]

Interestingly enough, what came to mind when viewing the piece at the :50 second mark was the image of a DNA 🧬 image. After reading the artist background and descriptions on each bellow, it reinforced my interpretation that these things that we stand for internally, that make up our DNA, can be used to make a positive change in this world. It’s a masterful way to let others know that they have the power to do something incredible. Thank you for sharing your talent with the world and I wish you the best of luck with all your future projects.

[@ArtDocuments]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment! Elana's work speaks profoundly in various ways and it is lovely to see in various contexts and styles of exhibition.