Artist Statement
Women are frequently subjected to versions of inescapable idealization. They are often represented in highly contorted and unnatural ways, reinforced by the historic control societies have had over bodies. These culture contexts are created by tradition and media forming the expectations we still perform. The series, Contemporary Realism, a Spotlight on Women, rejects the unacceptable norms of highly produced and manipulated media, by recognizing the importance of authenticity and autonomy.
Within Contemporary Realism, the naturalistic ways women can operate is visually prioritized. Through depicting women in candid moments, they maintain a bodily control that is otherwise lost through traditional absolute objectification. Through the series we are given an intimate perspective on exploring naturalistic ways of existing. Bodily information is highly prioritized, and absence of environmental information contributes to the figurative focus. The historical context of how women have been depicted through paint reinforces the importance that the subjects maintain control.
The journey to self is isolating, and perception is relative. Familiarity when operating in the context of objectification reminds us that we only exist for ourselves.
