In the Fitting series, the sculptures focus on the act of fitting. This is an act we think about on a daily basis. “Do I fit into these pants?” “Can I fit in that seat?” “Do I fit with these people?” As Kleinhans wrapped sinew around the soft, plush foam to conform it to a predetermined barrier, they thought of body-shaping garments people have used for centuries to fit into an ideal standard. These items include, but are far from limited to: corsets, chest binders, spanx, and waist cinchers. When used incorrectly, these shapewears have been proven to be detrimental. Extreme compression can cut oxygen off from the lungs, ribs can be broken, and the need of external assistance in the removal of the material. This determination to fit into a mold at any cost is a concept that has always intrigued me. These pieces are an exploration into what happens when the subject is denied the opportunity to fit because of set parameters. What beauty can be found in the folds and wrinkles of pieces of foam that are left out? How do I fit?

Fitting XV is a live performance with the silhouette of a body housed in the middle of a sheet of wood. The body represented is one that is the same height as the artist, but is the “average” body weight of a person that height- something Kleinhans is not. They attempt to fit their body through the opening to fit the standard that is placed against their body on a daily basis. As they squeeze their flesh through the silhouette, it’s reminiscent of the seats their body has to squeeze into and small sidewalks they have to walk down before ultimately colliding into others. The ultimate goal of this piece is for the artist’s body to fit through (within) the wood (society) and its harsh, non-budging parameters.

Fitting X

2018

wood, rubber foam, screws, staples, video projection

Fitting XV

2019

performance

Fitting XX

2022

wood, rubber foam, screws, staples, video projection