Written by: Deanna Cachoian-Schanz

Representing a diverse group of Armenian immigrant women, She Loves Collective aims to bring a contemporary, pop-art perspective to traditional Armenian cuisine. “The Dish” invites the public to dig-in to a dish universally found in an Armenian kitchen- dolma. A plate of stuffed grape leaves takes over as soon as you step into the museum, immediately inviting you to take part, staging the escape of oversized dolmas that are usually perfectly placed by the dig-ins (Armenian for “women”) who so carefully wrap and prepare them.

A flawlessly, hand-painted porcelain platter with a classic China-rose motif is reminiscent of a grandmother’s plate presents this delicious meal.  Constrained by four walls, the dolma sculptures are sewn and digitally printed on high-tech fiber that is soft and plush to the touch.
With the dispersion of dolmas scattered outside of their plate-home, “The Dish” challenges patriarchal community structure with humor and whimsy. Here, there is no teasing promise of deliciousness. These dolmas are made by immigrant women who refuse to ask anyone for their legitimacy. And, instead of towering in a hyper-organized, overwhelming food pile that is expected to be perfectly cooked, sculpted, placed, and protected by the family matriarch who keeps this tradition alive, in “The Dish,” soft, impotent dolmas made by these same matriarchs refuse to form a tall and towering pyramid to serve others. Rejecting the structure of shattering the glass ceiling, soft and pliable dolmas disperse onto the floor, so that they can be playfully, teasingly, or roguishly handled by the public- so don’t just stand there, dig in!

“For the master’s tools will never dismantle the master’s house. They may allow us to temporarily beat him at his own game, but they will never enable us to bring about genuine change.” – Audre Lorde

“THE DISH” was first presented Tufenkian Gallery as part of the CROSSROADS, CONVERSATION, CONVERGENCE exhibition in the summer of 2021. She Loves collective is proud to present it for the second time as part of #GlendaleElectic, a two day art festival presented by Museum of Neon Art in Glendale, California.

If you are interested in purchasing a dolma pillow please inquire with the gift shop. Embellished pillows are $75 each, non-embellished are $50. If you would like to purchase the entire piece- plate with 20 pillows (5 embellished) please send us an email shelovescollective@gmail.com.

She Loves Collective appreciates you love and support of the arts- if you would like to make a donation to the collective for upcoming projects you may do so via Venmo (@SheLovesCollective).