They’re Our Bodies

The series They’re Our Bodies focuses on women’s rights and LGBTQ+ representation through education, outreach, and hosting conversations about issues specific to my community. A Man’s Sign-Off is a piece for all the folks who’s bodies have been governed by an authority. Through intense and intentional mark-making, I illustrate the decisions made over our bodies. The choice to carve away sections of paint imitates the signatures of people in government as they dictate how and what should be done to the people they represent. In the work, I know Jesus loves me, I have used repetitive text stating “Jesus loves me this I know”. For some this may be a familiar phrase said regularly in religious services. As a young girl, I heard this phrase as a sign of love and acceptance. But as a queer adult, this phrase has been used against me. Often used as a threat, the church tells us we are not worthy of love until we choose to live in silence and secrecy. By integrating my experiences into my art, I not only strive to share my story but empower others to share theirs as well.