The exhibition "Girls and Horses" by Janet Biggs was presented as part of Family/PostFamily, Vantaa City Museum, Finland in 1998 and at the Chassie Post Gallery, 453 Broome Street, New York, NY 10013, in April 1996.


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Image of Eda Faye on the Coin Operated HorseThis exhibition examines girls' relationships with horses, exploring issues of power, sexuality and autonomy. The multi-media installation includes video monitors, still photography, and wall-sized video projections. The elements work together to create an active environment which allows complete immersion in Biggs' vision.


Image of Justine on the Stick Pony Many girls have experienced an infatuation with the horse. This romance takes many forms, from early play, through fantasy and desire, and perhaps to the act of riding.

Image of Lola and Susan Playing Horsey

The horse, a symbol of beauty, power, freedom and magic, can be an object of identification or serve as a protector.

 



Image of Jacqui and Marc Playing Horsey

This installation consists of three main elements: first, nine-year-old Amanda, trotting on a large white horse, appears to circle the gallery. This startling effect is achieved by rotating video projectors.



Image of Brittany and Arthur Playing HorseyImage of 
Molly and Andrew Playing Horsey

The second element is a series of intimate looks at girls playing "horsey." Eight monitors present video loops: one shows a girl playing with a stick horse, one riding a coin operated horse, one shows three girls on a merry-go-round, and five loops show girls playing horsey with a parent.

Image of Caroline and Karen Playing Horsey


The third element is a large scale color photograph of a girl in her bedroom. The girl's favorite possessions surround her, including a plastic horse collection, horse show ribbons, saddle, and her diary. The bedroom is a shrine to the horse, and is evidence of girls' search for self-definition.

Image of 
Lila, Rebecca and Regina on the Merry-Go-Round



Girls and Horses

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