Statement
Momentos of A Doomed Construct focuses on gender roles and the expectations that surround women. What it meant to be female/feminine in the family/community I grew up in. What it meant to not be able to live up to those beliefs, to be at constant frustration with that set of behavioral expectations. I struggle with the idea of the masculine and the feminine being separate which informs my work. I specifically worked on a larger scale and used traditionally masculine building techniques paired with overtly feminine decorative details. These feminine details were inspired by North Carolina’s relationship with the furniture, upholstery, and textile industries. These industries informed my idea of the domestic space and I chose these forms and floral patterns because they represent my community’s idea of femininity. The work also references pop culture, fairy tales, and Disney, all things that influence our ideas of gender.
The floral patterns used to upholster the exterior were chosen specifically because they were overtly feminine and were readily available in most fabric stores. There was a direct connection between the furniture and these floral patterns that are used to upholster furniture. The models were sewn into the objects, the clothing patterns matched the interior, making the model part of the background and the actual furniture itself. The forms the objects take are feminine, rounded, and vaginal. These structures are intentionally piped and the details painted pink and gold in reference to the overt absurdness mixed with the allure of these gender roles and expectations.
Each model chosen had certain qualities I found unattainable and represent the constant striving I was encouraged to work toward. Most specifically, their size, the way their bodies looked, their external look of innocence and youth. The models were asked to adhere to behavioral rules, be quiet, do not respond to any of the audience’s conversation or inappropriateness. Do not stand up for yourself but continue to present the outer veneer. The only power she was given was her quiet stare which is an indication of her rage beneath the surface.
I am struck by the power constructs in our society, the relationship between the public world and the private consumption of violent pornography at an ever expanding rate and the depiction of women within both worlds. Where these worlds collide and what this does to women’s relationship or experience within the world. What are the consequences of viewing women in these public and private ways and how does this affect women’s lives and their relationships while moving through the world?
This work is an extremely personal exploration of my inner struggle with the expectations placed on me as a woman in my community and my experiences moving through public space.