Darcy Whent's US Debut 'Soft Bodies, Hard Frames' at Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery
Welsh artist Darcy Whent is set to showcase her inaugural solo exhibition in the United States, titled 'Soft Bodies, Hard Frames,' at Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery in West Palm Beach, Florida, from September 18 to October 24, 2026. This exhibition delves into themes of folklore, memory, belief, and the female experience through emotionally charged artworks. Whent’s paintings present hybrid figures and ambiguous environments, probing the influence of inherited narratives on identity. A key aspect of her work is the interplay between fairy tales and religious narratives. Pieces such as 'Nettle' and 'Stay, Stay, Stay' illustrate themes of uncertain tenderness and transformation. Additionally, the exhibition features 'Light as a feather' and 'Hair of the dog, Part two.'
Key facts
- Darcy Whent's first solo exhibition in the US is 'Soft Bodies, Hard Frames' at Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery, West Palm Beach.
- Exhibition dates: September 18 to October 24, 2026.
- Whent is a Welsh artist who grew up in rural Wales.
- The exhibition explores folklore, memory, belief, and female experience.
- Key works include 'Nettle', 'Stay, Stay, Stay', 'Light as a feather', and 'Let your hair down, let down your hair'.
- Whent's practice examines how stories are constructed and granted authority, comparing fairy tales and religious texts.
- The artist uses hair as a symbol of comfort and restraint.
- The exhibition is presented by Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery.
- The source is Art Plugged, published August 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Darcy Whent
Institutions
- Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery
- Art Plugged
Locations
- West Palm Beach
- Florida
- United States
- Wales