The Origin
After an extensive and thorough discussion about experiences and societal observations, I decided to create a series that explores it. In these pieces, I attempt to find my balance between society's perception of my inferiority as a female and my superiority as an able-bodied, white non-immigrant in America.
This piece represents society's stigma toward both women and the stretch marks they bear. Sometimes it's the Hands of Society that pull at the woman in the image, stretching her to fit their views. Other times, I'm the hands, conforming to perceptions of "ideal" and "perfect" as I stretch myself and others to fit that image.
Within the larger series (pictured below) is a mini-series of six works, each depicting hands in direct interaction with the "little people." Here, the large power attempts to crush the supposed weaker power, but the individual remains strong. The design, with the focal point away from the action and in the center of the fingers' curl, emphasizes the distortions of what society deems "topical."
Marking a change in mentality and project direction, this piece shows the mechanics of society as a benefit to those smaller powers. The hand provides a ladder to climb, giving the figures advantageous positions. By creating this piece, I begin to find my balance.
