There was a moment when I realised that what I thought to be true about romantic love was in fact a lie; a product of socially guided gender-norms, and fiction. Balancing on the edge of fairy-tale and disappointment, the visualisation of romance forms a reference framework and embeds itself into the minds of females. That earth-shattering moment we’ve been conditioned to wait for is merely an ingrained fictional narrative script in our heads, projected onto our lives, and reinforced by societal expectations.
Why is romantic love seen as conducive to happiness? Why does it define the reason and goal of existence? Why is it so tightly linked to identity and self-esteem? Women are caught in a double bind; “needing“ a relationship and being stereotyped as hysterical and obsessed.
My work investigates, challenges and recontextualises female socialisation and the role of popular culture in identity, the cultivation of romantic beliefs and expectations, and the salience of fantasy over reality.
'Curtsy', 2022; Oil on primed card, 77 x 46cm
Degree show installation
'Balancing act' 2022; Oil on canvas, 40 x 40cm
'You're nobody 'till somebody loves you', 2021; Acrylic on newsprint, Studio installation,
'My life is in your hands', 2022; Oil on canvas, 137 x 74cm
'Hopelessly devoted', 2021; Oil on primed card, 48 x 48cm
'21 days/ 21 years' 2021; 42 glossy photo prints, 5 x 7"
'Waiting for life to start', 2021; Oil on canvas, 30 x 30cm
'Waiting room ticket', 2022; Inkjet print on 167gsm heavyweight matt photo paper
Degree Show Installation