LIMINAL

Pavillon Lemme, Sion, 2022

Liminality denotes a threshold state, describes the transition from one space to another. In this zone of transition, there is disorientation, ambiguity, the previously valid order is thrown overboard - everything seems possible, freedom reigns. At the same time, this threshold state can also trigger insecurity and fear. The term was coined in anthropology around 1900 and describes the "middle space" of rites of passage, for example between childhood and adulthood. Liminality can refer to different subjects and their transformation processes: Individuals, social groups, societies and entire civilisations. Equally, it manifests itself in objects, spaces and places. It is therefore not surprising that the concept is made fruitful in psychology and psychoanalysis, philosophy, postcolonial theory and post-structuralist approaches, including gender and queer studies. Literary and film theory in particular is concerned with liminal spaces.... Is it also these spaces of attraction and repulsion, of the most exciting ambiguity and uncertainty, that fascinate Ilona Ruegg? Into which she introduces her art as a form of narration, or which she creates in the first place?

Josiane Imhasly (Curator)