ARTIST STATEMENT
My sculptures were initially formal experiments in light, color and form. More recently I’ve been exploring the feminine and vaginal forms that were occurring naturally in my work. Now, the forms are more intentionally vaginal and often, aggressively frilly and sparkly. I started using finishes like gold and colored metal leaf to add even more adornment, after reading actress Mindy Kahling say, “Men tend to not understand or like sequins very much,” but that women love wearing them. Why is the abundance and celebration those of us who identify as femme so off putting to some who would have us hide our light? Why is the vagina perceived with such disgust? Regardless, of how we choose to adorn or not adorn ourselves, how we present ourselves to the world is our own sacred creative expression. The goal being to make the viewer consider why such forms create feelings of joy and empowerment in some and revulsion or dismissal from others, due to their “feminine” nature.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Cindy Blair works as a teaching artist and museum educator for the Alexandria Museum of Art in Alexandria, Louisiana and is a resident artist at River Oaks Art Center. Originally from northeast Louisiana, she lived most of her adult life in and around New York City, where she raised her son. She obtained a B.F.A from Louisiana State University, a M.F.A. from the State University of New York at Albany and an Advanced Certificate in Art in Design Education from Pratt Institute. Originally a painter, she made the jump into sculpture while at Pratt, during a puppetry class. Currently, she creates illuminated sculptures that explore feminine forms and questions of the perception of femininity. She lives in Pineville, Louisiana with her family.
© Cindy Cooper Blair