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Exploring an ongoing tension between the display and interpretation of prehistoric female figurines, known as a 'venus', and my contemporary gaze.
Female Gaze, Repeated
linocut prints on paper, 2026
The repetitive nature of linocut print lends extra weight to the gazes that find these figures over and over; each one is seen anew and yet subject to the individuals assumptions and biases. Who/what/how is this woman? I bring my own gaze to these figures again and again.
2 “Venus” female figurines - The Dolni Vestonice female figurine and the Flattened Figure (The Nun). Just by naming them, I need to reference the term 'venus', used by biased male archaeologists that initially excavated and displayed them.
The minimalist lines and sleek silhouette of the Dolni Vestonice Venus have always spoken to me, especially when I feel regally feminine. The smaller figurine has a hole that makes it seem like it would have been worn, leading me to ask so many questions more than just relegating it to the realm of fertility figures.
Shattered Venus of Brassempouy, glass, 2015
"Conservation will be done with a neutral pH removable adhesive after x-rays determine where she is cracked versus carved."
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