Artist Statement "M"

“M” is a piece I created as an homage to the Virgin Mary and to womankind.

Because Mary is often referred to as the perfect woman I have interpreted her perfection through her youthful unadorned figure. She is recognizable from her distinctive pose with open arms and down cast eyes. Although women today are far removed from this demure interpretation of what the perfect woman is, it still resonates in the hearts of many.

I have been intrigued by the never-ending depictions of Mary throughout history in both art and in writing. The visual images projected over the sculpture of the figure give reference to these many versions. The audio, which is the sound of a slide projector, conjures ideas of education and art history. The piece “M” questions the constant reeducation of who this female is, what it means to be female, and who and what defines us as such.