BA, Art (Digital Fabrication and Design)
Artist Statement
My work explores the intrinsic value of autonomy, body positivity, and sexual liberation through BDSM play. The objects that I have created are strappy, and while they may appear complicated, they are simple in nature and easy to put on. The viewer can expect to sense an edginess to the design of the piece, with the metal hardware, and crisp black full-grain laser cut leather.
To maintain continuity within my bodies of works, I have chosen to utilize similar themes throughout my creations- to really be able to create all I can imagine within the theme of BDSM wearables and safe accessories. For this particular series, there is a shoulder to chest harness with a pentagram on the back, and easy to buckle snaps in the front. I have paired this harness with a set of bondage cuffs to match. The chest harness can fit from traditional US sizes 2-16 women’s, and can also fit men, as the front is open. During the time I was hand making leather objects for friends, I was learning how to use a laser-cutter, when one thing led to another, so I chose to experiment with the leather on the laser cutter. In doing this I discovered how precise and wonderful the laser cutter was for this purpose, as all the lines were cut cleanly and looked great!
My goal is to have the viewer walk away from these pieces, curious about their role in the BDSM or fetish lifestyle community, and to express their own curiosity through the use of other mediums. My hope is that I can give other curious individuals a realistic presentation that is body positive and inclusive.