Shadows of Femininity - A New Series

Shadows of Femininity - A New Series

While pulling inspiration and excitement for new work from all the art in Florence, Italy during my time abroad, I found that one style in particular was resonating far more than most. It was the darker art of Caravaggio.

Inspired by his work I created my three final paintings during my time in the city before returning home to the states. These three pieces in turn, inspired the creation of my painting titled "She. Is. Done" after I returned home. With a darker shadowy setting in which the figure resided, and soft shifting colors across the skin, "She. Is. Done" has become one of my most proud and favorite paintings. These are the origin of my current series. 

The Shadows of Femininity series is a visual exploration of the shadows within oneself, particularly the shunned sensuality and self-love of our bodies as women. Through this series of paintings, I aim to challenge the societal norms that have often suppressed female sensuality and to celebrate the beauty of all they ways a female is formed.

The Shadows of Femininity is an invitation to you to explore your own shadows, and to embrace your sensuality, vulnerability, and strength. I hope to inspire you to cultivate a deeper sense of self-love, and to celebrate your own journey of healing and growth. The female figures in this series are depicted in sensual poses, but they are not objects of external desire from the viewer. Rather, they are powerful and confident, reclaiming their sexuality as a source of strength and empowerment challenging you to question your own beliefs and attitudes towards sensuality and self-expression.

The use of black canvases in this series serves as a metaphor for the shame and stigma that have historically been attached to female sexuality, inviting you to confront these shadows and challenge the beliefs that have held you back. It also explores the use of black as a color that is often associated with darkness, negativity, and fear, but here also represents mystery, elegance, and sophistication.

The paintings in this series are all depictions of real individuals whom have so graciously given me their voice to create these dipictions. All intended to evoke a sense of empowerment and self-acceptance. By acknowledging and embracing the shadows within ourselves, we can begin to cultivate a deeper sense of self-love and confidence.

Ultimately, the Shadows of Femininity series is an invitation for you to engage in a philosophical exploration of your own shadows, and to begin the process of embracing all parts of yourself. It is a celebration of the female body, sensuality, and self-love. Through these paintings, I hope to inspire women to feel empowered and confident in their own bodies, to break free from the shadows of shame and repression, and to embrace the beauty and power of their own femininity.

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