Silas Borgstrom Ruesler
Touch Tank
An Ecosystem of Aqua-Genitalia
We all deserved a better sex-ed when we were in school… especially Queer folks. How can we call it education when it makes curiosity a sign of depravity? So many of us grew up scared of our own bodies and what we might find in between its folds and orifices. Scared of pleasure. Of exploration. There must have been a better way.
Silas Borgstrom Ruesler answers our call with an alternative: the Touch Tank. Populated by a myriad collection of silicone creatures modeled on human anatomy, it provides a safe (adn weird) space to explore an ecosystem of aqua-genitalia creatures. These creatures are ready to engage with visitors and show them a way to interact with them based on play, curiosity and respect. With Silas along as the resident genitocryptozoologist, leading hands-on tours for those who want some guidance as they plunge into this new world, Touch Tank will be a strange and wonderful addition to our warehouse installations.
More about the artists:
Silas Borgstrom Ruesler (they/he) is a multi-disciplinary artist exploring identity, vulnerability, and the body with a satirical and surreal approach. Raised by a high-school biology teacher in Los Angeles, CA, they are heavily influenced by natural forms and human anatomy. Silas received their BFA in studio art from Cal Poly SLO in 2020 and participated in the Inverse Performance Art residency in 2019 and 2020. They continue their work with interactive, visual, and sculptural arts as a means of communication, commentary, and catharsis. He has recently exhibited pieces at Umpqua Valley Arts and Maude Kerns Art Center in Oregon. Silas currently lives in Portland, OR, where he works in deathcare to support his artistic practice.