The first of the works in the series began amidst the turmoil of the global pandemic, when everything was uncertain, toilet paper was in short supply and public restrooms were a thing of the past. Mudgett embarked on these works with the intent to capture the emotions he experienced during that time. Why such an essential human activity is considered taboo in art and in society fascinated him. “We all take care of our business but never in public, it’s always done behind closed doors. I wanted to tear the doors down.”

Ironically, in a world that puts all of our activities mundane or otherwise on public display, the act of relieving ourselves still remains a very private part of life. With this show, the artist takes back a bit of our humanity by bringing to the forefront the savagery and beauty which is all too often ignored: that which lives in the grit of our daily existence.

THE PISS is on view until Thursday April 18, 2024 at ESO bureau de recherches - (MS) 4855 fountain Ave. Los Angeles. Please stop by.