The Art of Bonding: Connection and Sisterhood

by Tessa Mahurin

There is an innate desire in humans to be known. This comes from bonding with each other, an instinctual but rather passive thing we all do. For myself, I see these bonds in my female friendships and with my sisters. These are the women in my life who perhaps know me better than I know myself. There is a universal feeling of understanding amongst women everywhere, and there is femininity in these bonds of caring for and supporting one another.

FSU’s Museum of Fine Arts recently showed an exhibit entitled “The Art of Bonding.” This show explores the strength of the connections we make as humans. The show includes works by two twin sisters, Hu Bao and Hu Bei, and their experience as twins living in separate places. One work, entitled “Gathered Light”, is a pair of LED light cubes that change in brightness and color depending on the cubes position to each other.

Gathered Light, LEDs and Arduino, 13cm x 13cm/5.1in x 5.1in, 2021

This piece is a powerful image of how time and space strain our relationships, and how we are meant to make connections and find support in each other. I know I am not alone in sharing this idea, especially when it comes to my female friendships. Much like this piece, there is a light in all of us that is either diminished or increased depending on the light held in those around us.

Another piece in the show, titled “1.2 Meters,” is interactive and designed to be worn as a handbag or necklace. Made with distance-sensing capabilities, the piece will gradually light up when passersby come within 1.2 meters of the piece.

1.2 Meters, LED and Ultrasonic Sensor, 2022

This again is a creative manifestation of the light and energy exuded from close contact and connections with others. This show was an excellent visual and physical representation of the bonds and connections we all experience. The artists Hu Bao and Hu Bei have captured the warmth of connection beautifully and through a visual language proved that intimacy and bonding is a universal language.

Tessa Mahurin is a junior at FSU studying Art History and Business Management. She hopes to go into arts administration. She has a passion for the arts and understanding how they shape our daily lives. She is currently the Visual Arts editor for The Kudzu Review, and loves getting to engage with student-submitted artwork. Tessa loves running and reading and is currently trying to reach her Goodreads goal of 30 books this year!

Want to read more? Check out our most recent posts!