In my artistic practice, I merge craftsmanship with a therapeutic perspective, delving into themes surrounding mental health, femininity, and social politics. Through my work, I strive to envision a society in which gender equality and mental well-being stand as foundational pillars of justice, rather than relegated to the side. My creative process involves the appropriation of imagery from vintage magazines and 1950s comics, offering a critical commentary on the diet culture, body image struggles, and misogynistic advertisements that have persisted into the 21st century.

 

My relationship with this imagery is complex; I'm simultaneously drawn to its aesthetics and repulsed by the messages it conveys. A key facet of my practice involves immersing myself in the history encapsulated within these old magazines, carefully selecting, and clipping ads that resonate with me. However, my true passion lies in compiling these images and transferring them onto clay.

 

Inspired by the Feminist Art Movement, I employ functional dinnerware, such as platters, to convey personal political messages, intrusive thoughts, or fleeting phrases that I've collected over time. This artistic approach serves as a medium for my desire to make a powerful statement on societal issues. Another integral aspect of my practice is therapeutic in nature. Through the act of crafting with ceramics, I find an avenue to process my emotions and confront past traumas. As I shape my pieces, I immerse myself in a meditative state, allowing me to reflect on the events that have unfolded in my life. This emotional journey invariably finds its expression in the art, with my emotions manifesting through sgraffito sketchbook characters, phrases, and intrusive thoughts etched into the clay. Ultimately, my work encapsulates a dual purpose: it serves as a platform for social critique and activism while simultaneously facilitating personal healing and emotional expression. Through the intricate fusion of craftsmanship and therapeutic release, I aim to provoke thought and inspire change in our perception of mental health, gender equality, and the broader spectrum of social politics.

 

Coming of age in the early 2000s, I found myself immersed in a media landscape dominated by magazines that epitomized the pinnacle of dieting trends. These publications relentlessly promoted the idea of achieving flawless perfection through quick-fix solutions, imparting messages on how to captivate a man and ensure his approval, or promising miraculous weight loss in a matter of days. This constant exposure to these toxic narratives fueled my fascination with the "1950s housewife" archetype.

The women of this era symbolize the indomitable spirit and unwavering determination that runs through the veins of a diverse female-identifying population. They personify the essence of feminism, advocating for gender equality across all spheres of life, be it in the workplace or within personal relationships. These iconic figures are a vivid reminder that true progress hinges upon the principles of gender equality and empowerment.

 

In my work, I aim to channel the strength and resilience of these women from the past, evoking their enduring spirit as a source of inspiration and empowerment for the present and future. Through my art, I seek to challenge and question the stereotypes and expectations that have persisted from the 1950s to the present day, while promoting a vision of a world where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.

 

The imagery of these women is layered with intrusive thoughts or passing phrases I have thought of and collected over time. The inclusion of text works as a form of self-introspection, informing my exploration of why these intrusive thoughts are recurring. These images and phrases are layered on top of bright vivid colors, delving into the emotional landscape to portray the inner struggles and triumphs of individuals facing mental health challenges. By doing so, I aim to destigmatize mental illness and emphasize the importance of compassion, support, and accessible mental health services. 

 

Within the realm of my artistic practice, I maintain a disciplined daily sketchbook routine. This meticulous practice is intimately connected with my creative output, serving as much of my artistic inspiration. Each morning, I dedicate a minimum of thirty minutes to contemplatively engage with my sketchbook, allowing my subconscious to dictate the subjects of my sketches. This steadfast practice culminated in the creation of a recurring character that has become a presence in virtually all of my artistic works: The Watcher. This anthropomorphic embodiment symbolizes the enduring, scrutinizing gazes that individuals grappling with high-functioning anxiety and the aftermath of PTSD may perceive or encounter in their daily lives. Mixing these cartoon-esque characters with realistically depicted humans plays on the concept of feeling out of place or being “too loud” by standing out in society.