‘Spider Couple: Psychoanalysis and Animal Imagery in Louise Bourgeois’s Work’ Explored at The Church

The Church will host an intimate afternoon of art, psychoanalysis and dialogue on Sunday, July 13, at 3:30 p.m. with “Spider Couple: A Psychoanalysis of Animal Imagery in Louise Bourgeois’s Work.” The program features curator and writer Philip Larratt-Smith in conversation with clinical psychoanalyst and author Jamieson Webster.

Together, they will examine “Spider Couple” (2003), Bourgeois’s iconic 12-foot sculpture currently on view on The Church’s outdoor deck as part of its summer exhibition “The Ark.” The discussion will delve into Bourgeois’s symbolic use of animal imagery and its deeper psychological implications, drawing on both her visual work and her psychoanalytic writings. A Q&A will follow the talk.

Bourgeois, one of the most psychologically daring and influential artists of the 20th century, often used recurring motifs and autobiographical symbols to process personal trauma and emotional complexity. Her work, though deeply individual, has created space for collective reflection and empathy.

This talk marks a rare opportunity to hear from Larratt-Smith, curator of The Easton Foundation and editor of Bourgeois’s forthcoming psychoanalytic writings, alongside Webster, whose clinical insights and recent publications have explored the intersections of art and psychoanalysis.

“Spider Couple” is on display Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. This marks the first time one of Bourgeois’s spider sculptures is being shown at an East End arts institution and the first time The Church has used its outdoor deck as part of an exhibition.

Tickets are $15 general admission, $10 for members at thechurchsagharbor.org. The Church is at 48 Madison Street in Sag Harbor.