Curatorial notes

A Little Chicken presents one of Bernstein's most recognizable symbols: the chicken as a stand-in for the vulnerable, uncertain, and deeply human aspects of ourselves. Surrounded by energetic marks and radiant color, the figure appears both exposed and triumphant, embodying the tension between fear and self-expression. The accompanying poem reflects on the power of the will—its ability to inspire, suppress, persuade, and shape our actions, often without our conscious awareness. Through playful language and childlike imagery, Bernstein explores the internal forces that influence our choices and perceptions. The final line, "All my propositions / Are coming up / Roses," suggests a moment of acceptance and transformation, where self-awareness becomes a source of confidence rather than limitation.