"She Multiples More" 2024, Jacilia Rucker-Glasper
My project, "She Multiplies More," provides an in-depth exploration of women's rights and the enduring challenges women face in asserting their autonomy. While we have made significant strides since the 19th Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote, the pursuit of equality remains ongoing. It is both disheartening and alarming to recognize that not all women, particularly in certain states, enjoy equal access to this fundamental right. Historically, various barriers such as poll taxes, literacy tests, and intimidation have created substantial obstacles for many women, especially women of color and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Furthermore, I believe women are still treated as subjects of governmental control regarding our bodies and life choices. This is particularly evident in the ongoing struggle for reproductive rights. The fight for abortion rights exemplifies a broader sentiment among many women: our autonomy feels restricted as if our reproductive choices are confined in a metaphorical cage. However, beneath this cage lies an immense reservoir of strength and resilience. As a strong woman, I am committed to advocating for myself and firmly refuse to be silenced by systemic oppression or societal expectations.
My artistic inspiration draws from remarkable female figures such as Ana Mendieta, Marina Abramović, and Wangechi Mutu. Each of these artists has boldly challenged societal norms and expanded the boundaries of contemporary art in profound ways. I am also deeply inspired by Dadaism, an avant-garde art movement known for its chaotic and subversive expressions. The Dada ethos, especially as expressed in various Dada video artworks, resonates with me because it embraces messiness and unconventionality—qualities often overlooked in the art world.
In my creative practice, I deliberately refrain from producing overly polished or pristine pieces. Instead, I strive to capture the complexity and imperfection inherent in my identity. My artwork is a powerful manifestation of my experiences, emotions, and struggles. Each piece illustrates the idea that true self-representation is never flawless or simplistic. By embracing imperfection, I aim to convey the rich tapestry of the human experience, particularly the nuanced journey of women navigating a world that frequently seeks to confine and limit us.
Ultimately, "She Multiplies More" is not just about advocating for women’s rights; it is a celebration of strength, resilience, and the ever-evolving narrative of womanhood. I hope this project inspires dialogue and encourages others to find their voices in the ongoing fight for equality.
Frida Kahlo Was a Painter, a Brand Builder, a Survivor. And So Much More | NY Times
“People have an insatiable curiosity with her, and this presentation is a rare opportunity to see how she built her identity,”
Wangechi Mutu Dresses Cultural Critique in Freakishly Beautiful Disguises
“though she believes that the approach can be limiting when “there are so many political issues in other spheres of society,” Mutu says. As she puts it, “The art world is not where true urgency exists.”
New York Times | The Ugly Beauty of Cindy Sherman
"In fact, her images are so foundational to feminist art criticism, to notions of the “male gaze,” that it can be difficult to see them for themselves — they come to us encrusted with theory."
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