Grace Williams: capstone
Date
2023
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Abstract
The artist's statement: This body of work is a collection of images that aim to show how societal stereotypes for women affect the female mind. This work is a journey through the experiences of different women and their stereotypes. The journey follows through the stereotype, how that stereotype affects them personally, and then finally how they see themselves. The images in the body were made to break the molds that have been set by society on women and show how much labels effect the human psyche. Through my work I want people, particularly women to see that they are more than just the label that they were given by society. The inspiration for this project came from personal experiences and struggles as a woman. As a woman I have battled with my self-image most of my life. This battle may not always be about appearance but also about who I am. As a woman there is this imposed list of labels or stereotypes that society has made for us. You must fit the mold sort of speck to be seen as a 'perfect' woman. These labels could be being a child-bearer, submissive, or wife. Whatever the label or mold may be, each one affects women and how we see ourselves. It changes how women present themselves and how we behave in our world. These labels and how they affect women are the main inspiration for this body of work. However, that is only half of the story. The other inspiration for this project is the destruction of these labels and the construction of our true selves. Through my images I want to show woman that being beautiful is to be yourself. These images were made using a mixture of analog film techniques, physical manipulation, and digital manipulation. All images shot for this body of work were shot on 120mm Ilford Hp5 Plus Black and white film. The camera used was a Pentax 6 x 7 with a 1-20m lens. After the shoot the film was developed and scanned for archival purposes. Then the images were physically manipulated. I would individually paint the B/W negatives with acrylic paint and later burn a selection of them. From there the now 'destroyed' negatives were scanned and digitally manipulated. The first and most important step of digital manipulation was to use an AI filter to turn the B/W image to a Color image. After this filter was applied, I could further edit the images to my liking. Finally, the images were printed on a printable fabric and stretched over a wood frame. This project has not only been one of self-discovery but also a journey of healing. Through my work I also got to learn about what it feels like to be other women and hear their stories. In learning these amazing women's stories, I learned what the definition of strength and perseverance is. This project has helped me stitch together what it means to be me. In doing this project I have found out what being an artist means to me. I have found my voice. I also know how I want to use my voice. I want to use my voice to make the unheard heard. To show the world the deeper levels of humanity.
Description
Colorado State University Art and Art History Department capstone project.
Capstone contains the artist's statement, a list of works, and images of works.
Capstone contains the artist's statement, a list of works, and images of works.
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Subject
photography