ARTIST STATEMENT
The antonym of domesticated is feral, “existing in a wild or untamed state.” The sculptural work I am presenting is an exploration of the absurdity of man and the subjection of women. Through suggestive and subtle symbolism each work of art serves as a criticism of the power and dominance of the patriarchy. Integrating themes of religion, gender bias, control, bodily autonomy, and human behavior I explore the visceral emotions of living with a disability and experiencing gender inequality in health care and in politics. Multiple techniques and processes are used to fabricate elaborate three-dimensional sculptures including body casting, steel fabrication, and concrete casting.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Kayla Jean Smith is a multidisciplinary artist living and working in Jacksonville, Florida. They earned their Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of North Florida specializing in sculpture and printmaking. They have exhibited nationally and internationally including at the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the 9th annual Contemporary Cast Iron Art Conference in Berlin Germany. They explore various mediums, combining processes such as steel fabrication, casting, woodworking, and printmaking. Their work focuses on conceptual themes of gender, religion, the working class, and human behavior. From small scale to large, Smith’s work varies in size depending on the project and its purpose. Two of their large-scale, abstract, geometric sculptures have been installed in public art spaces. One was installed in Frankfurt, Kentucky at the Josephine Sculpture Park, and another in her hometown of Jacksonville at the Seaside Sculpture Park.
© Kayla Jean Smith