Identifier

etd-10122004-135222

Degree

Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Department

Art

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

“Thick Skinned” is a series of sculptures using the domestic structure as a metaphor for the body. Issues of sexuality, gender roles, and domesticity are explored in this mixed-media installation. Viewer interaction with the work is encouraged for a complete sensual experience. The body and home are protective, yet fragile and delicately vulnerable. My work confronts notions of beauty and cruelty, bodily function and presence, with a focus on gender-biased social conventions in our culture. Conceptually, the work is autobiographical in nature, as it pertains to my experiences as a woman. Universally, it deals with the merging of sexuality and domesticity. This body of work revolves around a motif that is beautiful and grotesque, yet playful, resulting in a surreal landscape of strange fantasy.

Date

2004

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Kelli Scott Kelley

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.1965

Included in

Fine Arts Commons

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