Anna Heinen

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Carol Holan

A person working on ceramics.

Anna Heinen in the studio.

media release: Big Kitty’s Reverie Commissary: A Solo Ceramics Installation By Anna Heinen 

Backspace Gallery - December 5 - 17; opening reception in conjunction with the UW Madison Ceramics Program Exhibition is//isn’t. December 7, 6pm - 8pm

Do you want more control over your subconscious? Visit Big Kitty’s Reverie Commissary to browse magical objects that you can take into your dreams. Big Kitty, a ginormous, magical cat, has lots to offer, including power tools for dream control, alarm clocks, mysterious powder, personal massagers, and so much more! 

Heinen has spent the past few months building a world around their invented character, Big Kitty. Heinen invented Big Kitty based on their desire for a guardian angel who has power in the dream and waking world. Big Kitty owns a rental shop situated between the dream world and waking world where visitors can rent objects to take into their dreams. These magical objects that straddle two worlds can aid in directing dreams towards bliss. Working in ceramics, mixed media, wood working, hand paper making, and textile arts they’ve created an experiential installation. Big Kitty’s Reverie Commissary explores themes of queer femme sexuality, a seemingly uncontrollable subconscious, and imaginative narratives of healing and safety. 

Heinen is a fifth year BFA candidate at UW Madison, studying ceramics under Gerit Grimm and Christina West. They have been working with clay for nine years. Heinen likes processes that are physical and have a rich history in the craft world. They are a queer non-binary artist and often explore themes of sexuality and the body. Heinen’s work finds and invents magic. Heinen enjoys trying to play the fiddle, giggling, and hanging out with their cat Doves.