Melissa Auf der Maur Reflects on 90s Rock and Her Artistic Journey

Amidst a whirlwind of activities, Melissa Auf der Maur finds a moment of tranquility in her home in Hudson, New York. Just days ago, she graced the stage with the Smashing Pumpkins at Lollapalooza in Chicago, performing 'The Everlasting Gaze' alongside the likes of Olivia Rodrigo and Yungblud. But this is just a fraction of her current artistic endeavors.

This autumn, Auf der Maur’s photographic exhibition, 'My ’90s Rock Photographs,' will debut at the Art Gallery of Ontario. The collection features over 200 images captured during her years of relentless touring and recording. These photographs, taken on 35mm film, document the vibrant world of music through her unique lens, showcasing moments from hotels, tour buses, and festivals.

Her artistic output follows the release of her memoir, 'Even the Good Girls Will Cry: A ‘90s Rock Memoir,' which chronicled her experiences as a bassist for Hole and the Smashing Pumpkins, as well as her solo projects. The new exhibition is paired with an upcoming album, 'Bass Womb Room,' featuring demos and field recordings from her past.

In a conversation with Wallpaper*, Auf der Maur expressed her gratitude for finally being recognized as a multimedia artist. She reflected on her journey, stating, "I am so grateful to the creative gods and goddesses that brought me here… starting my new life as a true multimedia artist, which is what I always thought I was." This sentiment comes after a long career where her primary identity was rooted in music.

The photographer's shift toward art and her reflective processes were partly sparked by her experiences of motherhood. "The instigation was becoming a mother," she shared, emphasizing her desire to integrate her past, present, and future. "My memoir is dedicated to my daughter and all the girls of the world," she added, highlighting the interconnectedness of her creative endeavors.

Auf der Maur described her artistic vision as a kaleidoscopic approach, viewing the world through an energetic lens rather than rigid binaries. She shared fond memories of showcasing her early work at the iconic Max Fish bar in Manhattan, where she first articulated her artistic voice. The influence of the Renaissance on her work is notable, likening her photography to sampling in music—melding past inspirations with contemporary expressions.

Looking back on her life, she reflects on the tension between her roles in music and art. Despite initially viewing her music career as a potential detour from her passion for photography, Auf der Maur has embraced her multifaceted identity. She expressed hope about being ahead of her time, anticipating a new Renaissance in creative expression.

Her transformative decade of motherhood has reshaped her atmosphere, altering her creative process and priorities. She established Basilica Hudson, a nonprofit arts center, in 2010, dedicating herself to nurturing the artistic community around her. "If you want a total metamorphosis, transformation, unlike anything else, have a child," Auf der Maur remarked, acknowledging how motherhood has profoundly influenced her life and art.

As she prepares for the exhibition and album release, Auf der Maur’s journey remains a testament to the power of art as a means of self-exploration and expression. Her ability to weave together her rich experiences—from rock stages to art galleries—marks her as a significant voice in the contemporary artistic landscape.

Source: www.wallpaper.com