Statements
Female strength, resilience, and autonomy are at the core of the works I consider feminist statements. These are collected in two main series, the early “suffragette” figures, which feature a hybrid flora fauna figure–sometimes with her children–in various environments, and my more recent “paper doll” series titled “You Can Be What You Want To Be.”
Le Danse Rouge, 2022
Foil and paper with found image. 12in x 12in paper quilt square
A dancer bursts from a space between two giant male silhouettes. Over a bed of hot red and behind the screen of stern judgment and steel bars, the men communicate their presumed superiority over the female figure dancing for her life and freedom. Originally titled “cut,” red evokes determination and spilled female blood.
Sugar Coated, 2022
Paper and foil with glitter and beads. 12in x 12in paper quilt square
This “every woman” is a throwback to when women were supposed to be mothers and housewives. She wears a silver “superpower” apron demurely covering a revealing dress for when the hubby returns. Her blank face hides her dreams and ambitions, while numerous perfect children gambol at her feet on a quilt adorned with glitter evoking the sugar sprinkles of childhood. Baby beads banner spell out “sugar coated,” referring to this superficial, nostalgic view. From the paper doll series “you can be what you want to be.”
Flora, Fauna, Familiar, 2021
Paper and foil with glitter and mirrors. . 12in x 12in paper quilt square
Two figures regard each other, secure in their own distinct forms. One is leafy and chatty, the other is spare and silent. They are different, but appreciate each other’s humanity. From the paper doll series “You can be what you want to be.”
Reflection, Recognition, Reconciliation, 2021
Paper and foil with pen drawing. 12in x 12in paper quilt square
A woman recognizes herself, including past traumas and mistakes, which are symbolized by raging red squiggles and a shadowy figure behind her. She gains strength by facing the truth in the mirror. Though anonymous, her predicament is familiar. From the paper doll series “you can be what you want to be.”
Standing Up to That Which Would Obliterate the Sun, 2022
Paper and foil with pen drawing. 12in x 12in paper quilt square
A fearless, oversized woman made entirely of superhero cape material stands up against threats–pollution, fire, disease, the menacing waves of ocean rise due to climate change–that would obliterate the sun, the sky, and everything in the world as we know it. From the paper doll series “you can be what you want to be.”
