Review: Launa Changnon’s “I’m sorry for your loss” at Method Gallery

The Experience

Walking into Pioneer Square’s Method Gallery, the first thing that hits you is the woodsy smell that fills the air. The second thing is the sound of quiet robotic whirrs scraping against the hard floor. Launa Changnon’s exhibition, “I’m sorry for your loss,” takes the grieving process and transforms it into a physical, time-based form that is both clever and sobering.

The Installation

The centerpiece of the exhibition is a massive plexiglass and steel tank, 18 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 4 feet high. Inside the tank, a giant pile of dried leaves sits on one side, while several Roomba vacuuming robots attempt to clean up the mess. The robots work tirelessly, breaking down the leaves and filling up their little robot stomachs before emptying them at their home base.

The Concept

Changnon’s work has been five years in the making, inspired by her own experiences with death and grief. She collected 140 bags of dried leaves over two autumns, which now line the walls of the gallery, creating a heavy, woodsy atmosphere. The Roombas’ repetitive task mirrors the compartmentalization and discomfort that often accompanies loss, inviting viewers to reflect on their own personal struggles and emotions.

The Experience of Watching

Viewing the Roombas at work is strangely satisfying, akin to watching cleaning videos on social media. However, in this context, the experience feels more participatory and emotionally engaging. As the robots tirelessly clean up the leaves, viewers can’t help but see parallels to their own struggles and the never-ending nature of grief.

The Endless Cycle

While the exhibition will eventually come to a close, the idea of never-ending work and the constant presence of loss linger. The Roombas’ task may end, but in some universe, they will always be quietly working away. This sense of continuity and the comfort of holding onto something familiar resonates deeply with the audience.

Conclusion

Launa Changnon’s “I’m sorry for your loss” is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant exhibition that invites viewers to confront their own experiences with grief and loss. The combination of physical installation, robotic performance, and personal reflection creates a unique and engaging experience that lingers long after leaving the gallery. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this powerful exhibition at Method Gallery before it closes on February 18.