PAPER gallery - Viginia Gianni

May I Ass is the first solo exhibition from Virginia Gianni. Born in Athens, Greece, Virginia graduated from University of Salford’s Photography programme in 2021. Her exhibition explores the human body, located spatially and psychologically between Greece and England.

The exhibition draws from work that Virginia has produced over the past few years. The title, May I Ass, references the humour that is often used to diminish the experience of women who have been subjected to inappropriate sexual behaviour. Humour used as as a weapon, to reclaim the self and no longer be defined by the actions of others. The work is a commentary on resilience and defiance, creating an uncomfortable space between the viewer and the subject.

The Photographs draw from the uncanny, the bodies of the models inhabit a surreal environment and are displayed in order to provoke a reaction in the viewer. The work reflects a contrasting palate; the saturated colours of the Greek Islands juxtaposed against the overcast skies of Manchester.

Virginia works closely with her associates, creating a safe space where they feel comfortable to reveal their ‘ass’.