On Monday the 5th, I went to see Kyle Kogut’s False Monarchy solo exhibition. Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it to the opening, so I didn’t get to see him explain the project himself; however, I enjoyed my visit nonetheless navigating it on my own. Walking into the gallery, I was met with dark, ominous music coming from two TVs showing messages in front of a fire background. The exhibit was very interactive: you take a robe and a “prayer” book and participate in the worshiping of this “false monarch”. The most interesting part of the exhibit was definitely the black tree with a wolf hand hanging from it and offerings placed underneath. I was surprised to learn the whole thing was symbolism for the automotive industry. That’s not something I would’ve guessed, but looking back at the drawings especially, I can see a few car logos like Chevrolet and the Pontiac Firebird. The whole experience was eerie but very interesting!
