Pavonis Giron is a fine artist and an author/illustrator for children’s books. They approach fine art with a focus on the intersections between geological time, monumentalism, and human self-reflection, exploring the friction that exists between the often fleeting and amorphous view of one’s individual identity versus the overarching thread of time. Currently based in Milwaukee with their partner and pets, they grew up amongst the sun-bleached rocks of the Mojave Desert which continues to impact and inform their work today.
Pavonis Giron
they/them
"Pavonis Giron is a multidisciplinary artist & illustrator that uses sculpture and jewelry to explore themes of geological time as it relates to the history and self-image of humanity, whether that is on the scale of the individual or an overarching view of civilization as a whole. They use materials such as adobe, leather & wood alongside metals ferrous and nonferrous to create forms suggestive of prehistoric and natural motifs that continue to hold metaphorical meaning into the present day.”
“This piece functions as an embodiment of the expectation of those around me, diffusing, by light mockery, the amused discomfort of being misgendered. The pronouns people use to address me are often assigned upon me when they assume my gender, and while there is some fun to be had by taking note of who uses what and, additionally, in trying to untangle the why behind that choice, being incorrectly gendered is an uncomfortable thorn in the side. Venus as a Thorn pokes fun at the mistaken assignment of ‘male’ and the treatment or expectations of personality that often accompany it by drawing excess attention to an assumed masculine trait, exaggerating boldness, danger, and sexuality. Yet the symbolic masculinity is hollow; a fold-formed coil inside suggests serenity and comfort. For me, it makes the frustration that comes with knowing you are not seen clearly in another's eyes a lighter blow, and reminds me of the nuance of identity we all possess. It is a piece that embodies the armor it calls its origin to not only in form but in the feeling it imbues in me, one of adversarial boldness that at the same time grounds me and grants me some grace through amusement.”
How does your work relate to the theme Adorned Serenity—
How does the work function as a wearable safe space?
Venus as a Thorn. 15x15x5in, measured flat. Codpiece made from fabricated copper, brass, and reclaimed leather. 2023
How do you see this piece existing in the world as a wearable safe space?
Or is this piece specific to you?
“This piece is specific to me, though I am certain others may feel a kinship to the feelings described. I invite others to don it in imaginings of the self if it brings any amusement or braveness to them.”
If someone found this piece and needed an instruction manual to make the safe space work — what’s a quick how to?
“If someone were to find this and needed instructions on how to make this piece ‘work,’ I would certainly hope that they are acquainted with the leather side of the fetish and fashion world, at least enough to know how to put on a harness. I would even accept a ren fair participant - if one walks through the public in a codpiece they have my respect. After that it is a matter of getting into the headspace; one must be prepared to poke fun at the misunderstanding, be a little brash, and ultimately, move on.”
Anything else you would like to share about this work? This can be an important part of the process, sourcing materials, or research.
“This piece could not have come together without the help and patience of my friends and peers who coached me through the trickier points of the fabrication process. Thank you, especially, to Michal Schwab and Chance Gordon.”