Portrait of Beetles
Date: 2018
Seattle University Advanced Studio Art Exhibition Moonstruck
Role: fine art
The underlying concept of this work challenges social and religious constructs around the female gender role. The portrait and shrine dedicated to Maria Sibylla Merian—an 18th century botanical illustrator and naturalist—is a key female figure in this work. Merian made a significant contribution to the scientific community with her biodiversity and ecology research. All this in spite of navigating demanding religious expectations, and within male-dominated field. The concept is visually achieved by the juxtaposition between scientific entomological practices such as pinning insects for biological studies, and needlework—traditionally socialized as a feminine practice in the household.
Gauche, needlework, found objects
