Anna Perach

Anna Perach’s main medium of work is wearable sculpture and performance. She works in a technique called tufting, making hand-made carpet textile which she transforms into wearable sculptures. The sculpture functions as both a garment that is performed in as well as an independent sculpture. Through this choice of medium Anna is interested in exploring how elements associated with the domestic sphere operate as an extension of the self and reflect on one’s heritage and gender role. Her performances reverse this dynamic and exhibit the private domestic carpet as an external masquerade both exposing and hiding fragments of the self.

In Russian mythology, Alkonost is a hybrid female creature of the underworld, with a woman’s head and a bird’s body. She initially appears as a naïve maiden, conforming to society’s wishes until she is betrayed by her husband-to-be. It is then that Alkonost is “reborn”, transforming into a seducer and destroyer of men and claiming her own autonomy and power. The exposed white breasts and graceful headpiece of Perach’s design present Alkonost as a dual creature, embodying both purity and sexuality.

Anna Perach holds an MFA from Goldsmiths, and a BA in arts from Bezalel Academy of Art and Design, Jerusalem. She also studied at the Academy of Fine Arts Münster, Germany. Recent selected exhibitions include Identity, Jüdische Gemeinde, Frankfurt (2020); In Stitches, Larsen Warner, Stockholm (2020); Five Hides, Manor Place Walworth, London (2020); Seven Wives, MFA show, Goldsmiths, London (2020); Storia Notturna, Centrale Fies, Italy (2020); Tomorrow: London, White Cube, London, online project (2020); Ridiculous, Elephant West, London (2020); Parade, Broadway Gallery, Letchworth (2019); Plus One, Limbo, Margate Festival, Margate (2019); The Mother Art Prize 2019, Mimosa House, London (2019). Born in Ukraine, she now lives and works in London.