The image that I have decided to make a
stencil out of is the image of the external area of the female genitalia. I
have decided to put this on my cover because I feel that it reflects a lot of
the topics that we cover in class in terms of powerful and influential Chicana
artists. Feminist artists, including Yolanda Lopez and Alma Lopez have
published controversial work that addresses femininity and sexuality. I
believe that exposing the image is a revolutionary act in itself. Many women
are often scolded and embarrassed for embracing their sexuality. The image that
I have chosen is also a tribute to The Vagina Monologues, which is a play made
up of a variety of monologues that deals with aspects of the feminine
experience. These aspects include sex, love, rape, menstruation, female
mutilation, orgasm and birth. Contrary to society’s pervasive views, the female
genitalia is a tool of empowerment and identity rather than a shameful organ of
the woman’s body. The media and society’s construction of self-image often
bashes and makes women feel uncomfortable for what is in between their legs.
My cover cultivates healing, femininity and self-love for all women living in a
patriarchal society.
I love that you chose this image to stencil on your cover. Women talking about their vagina, sexuality, menstruation, etc. is taboo, but like you, I feel it should be viewed as empowering.
ReplyDeleteAs mentioned above, discussions about femininity, sexuality, and all the other encompassing concepts are definitely taboo in our culture/society. The fact, that you put it on your cover refutes the stigmatization of female identity and it is definitely empowering in itself so props to you compañera!
ReplyDelete