Sharona Franklin

Sharona Franklin’s work delves into radical therapies, bio-ritualism, ecology, pharmacology, and social interdependence. Her practice intertwines discourses of health, gender, class, and bio-citizenship, often challenging traditional perceptions of care and wellness. Central to Franklin's work are her gelatin sculptures, which she refers to as "bio-shrines." These pieces incorporate elements such as syringes, pills, medicinal plants, and flowers, reflecting her personal experiences with chronic illness and the medical treatments she undergoes. By using gelatin, a bovine byproduct, Franklin comments on the complexities of wellness culture and the animal-based drugs essential to her survival. These sculptures serve as both personal and political statements, highlighting the intersection of domestic life and the biopharmaceutical industry. In addition to her sculptural work, Franklin engages in textile arts, creating quilts and ceramics that explore themes of healing, identity, and the intersection of the personal and the political. Her use of varied organic and pharmaceutical materials connects her research into bioethics and environmental harm with holistic propositions for remediation and care. Through her multidisciplinary approach, Franklin invites viewers to reconsider notions of care, accessibility, and the lived experience of illness, offering a nuanced perspective on the complexities of modern medicine and its impact on the individual. ...