Xanthea Vazey
Kotara High School
SELF - ACCEPTANCE
Collection of Work
Verdigris base with patina on paper clay
Through the microcosm of each ceramic sculpture, my body of work represents our fragile and diminishing sense of connection within the contemporary world, where society’s stereotypes provide unrealistic representations of individuals. Simultaneously, by focusing on women, it explores the perception of women within art and society. Using visually exaggerated elements I examine how individuals are viewed, constantly subjected to discrimination based on size, weight and appearance. Experimenting with the impact of perspective, my intent is to emphasise the importance of self-acceptance by provoking reflection on how changing our point of view affects authentic experience.
My artmaking practice has been influenced by the study and interpretation of the following artists: Jenny Saville, Propped, Branded; Henry Moore, Reclining Figure, Seated Woman; Venus of Willendorf; Jenny Holzer, Truisms.
Marker's Commentary
This ambitious body of work is highly accomplished and reflects an erudite understanding of sculpture and photographic camera craft. The subtle and highly refined areas within the clay forms which have been treated with a bronze finish convey the preciousness and beauty of self-acceptance which is often over looked and not celebrated by many women in our society. The accentuated modelling of the robust female figures and their placement on the wooden plinths reveal a direct and authentic engagement with a reality that is often hidden or censured and criticised for not conforming to the stereotypical ‘ideal.’ The photographic images theatrically transform the small sculptures into bold, magnified views of the women, exposing them contemplating in their raw beauty through the untreated clay surfaces. The dramatic lighting, tonality and camera angles are deliberate and offer an alternate perspective from which to examine the female form. This creates a successful dialogue between the photographic images and sculptural forms. The inclusion of the small book also offers an intimate glimpse into the thoughts of the muse.