Taking over the IAO Gallery at the Institute for Art and Olfaction, French artist Boris Raux constructs and presents La Fabrique des Méduses (The Jellyfish Factory). Taking the form of a large-scale wooden structure within which are housed gel-based aromatic objects, the crux of the piece is a tactile performance. In an intimate encounter, the visitor becomes participant through the simple measure of a scalp massage.

Boris Raux acts as caretaker and hairdresser, giving each visitor a shampoo and a rinse. The three liters of water spent on the participant are collected and later jellified, creating an aromatic and intimate impression of the visitor’s embodied self.

As these jellyfish-like objects slowly evaporate, the scent of the participant is released into the space, over time. These ephemeral objects renew the tradition of Vanitas.

Learn more: artandolfaction.com/exhibitions/la-fabrique-des-meduses/

Instagram: @lafabriquedesmeduses

PLEASE NOTE

This is an art performance. Your hair will be washed and rinsed, and the water will be used to create a jellyfish, which will be installed in the gallery space for the remainder of the show. In other words, this is an art performance, not a professional service.

Please note that by agreeing to participating in Boris Raux's work, you are consenting to have your hair washed and rinsed. While we do not anticipate any issues, if you have a very sensitive scalp please do not sign up for this session.