Following acceptance into fine art residency program "RARA Residencia" in Malaga, Spain, I explored the feminine connection between felines and females, and studied the struggles both have faced throughout history. In my feminist solo exposition I presented a triptych oil painting series, an installation of collars and an additional two performative videos. This work was established over the course of one month, June 2022.
The domestication and social vision of the cat possesses a similar kinship with the progression, or often lack thereof, of Women’s rights throughout history. In this series of works entitled “The Cat”, composed of paintings, videos and photography, the artist explores the feminine connection between the feline and female.
Looking as far back as ancient Egypt, cats were praised, venerated and even immortalized for their resemblance to Bastet, goddess of Femininity and Love. Unfortunately, not all regions of the world had the same perspective. With the influence of the Greek and Roman empires, its mythology seeped into Egypt and throughout Europe, and began a false association of magic and the unknown. This mythical fear was not only subject to cats, but to women. Over time, this led to a strong connection between female and feline based on fear and tragedy. This long bond led to the death of countless women and cats that lasted well into the 18th century.
The reality that women share, like cats, in the artist's work is the imposition of the collar, domestication and submission. Women, regardless of race, size or color, are to a degree, inherently born with a social label that limits us without grounds for true equality. The collars of different colors and sizes represent the diversity and oppression women may experience in our lifetime.
One of those collars that the artist has very much in mind today is a possible reversal of Roe vs. Wade, and the disturbing state decisions regarding abortion in the United States. A collar that violates our fundamental rights is only a repetition of history that bonds us closer to an animal who lives to be domesticated.
Let's hope that these collars that we carry on our shoulders can disappear from each and every one of us as we continue fighting to be a little freer every day.
*Note: The reversal of Roe Vs. Wade was reinstituted shortly after this showing
