American artist Emily O’Leary divided opinion when she created a series of hyperrealistic rugs which imitate dogs lying on the ground. What was supposed to be enjoyable work became the target of criticism, suggesting that the the pieces look like dead animals. The designs simulate the real size of dogs and seek to critique the tradition of using animal skin in fashion.
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Controversial creation of the designer
Hyper realistic rugs
Controversial rugs are handmade by Emily O’Leary, from a textile base of linen and wool yarns. The process is slow and meticulous and can take months to complete each piece.
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What attracts the most attention is the realism, especially due to the details of the coat, which vary in color. Furthermore, the flattened shape of the bodies and the eyes always closed lead Internet users to have an idea negative first impression. On the internet, many comments claim that the work is in “bad taste”, suggesting that the rugs represent dead dogs. See more examples:
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Close the modal.
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Rugs on the street make a “morbid” impression
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Detailed work details
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Exposed carpet
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The work was criticized
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The criticism behind
Despite the controversy, O’Leary says the project is part of a emotional and critical approach. For the productions, the artist is inspired by old hunting trophies made of animal skin, also very present in fashion.
With this approach, an inversion is proposed, replacing human domination with the spirit of “kindness and compassion” for dogs. As a result, the carpets may have an affectionate and reflective side, but they nevertheless remain a source of strangeness for a large part of the public.
The artist sought to show compassion
Hyperrealism, malaise and fashion criticism
THE visual impact of Emily O’Leary’s works it is directly linked to the choice of hyperrealism as a language. By reproducing dogs on a large scale, with detailed fur and deliberately flattened bodies, the artist causes an immediate discomfort which is not accidental, but is at the heart of the proposition. The reference to old hunting trophies and the historical use of animal skins in fashion transforms the rugs into a critical commentary on consumption, domination and the naturalization of violence against animals.
Another case that links fashion realism to discomfort is that of Schiaparelli fashion show winter 2023which featured dresses and coats with hyper-realistic animal heads – like a lion, wolf or leopard – cast in resin and attached to the pieces. Even though it does not use real fur, the visual effect directly refers to hunting trophies, causing shock and great repercussion on the networks. Check out the images:
The look with a realistic lion has become a fashionable topic
Naomi Campbell
Schiaparelli Fashion Show 2023
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