ARTIST STATEMENT
“Hypocritic Oath” is a piece reflecting on the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade. This piece displays eagle talons controlling a marionette doll through red strings. The marionettist, depicted by eagle talons, was included to represent the United States government, while the marionette doll was inspired by the first Barbie doctor created by Mattel in 1973, the same year Roe v. Wade legalized abortion. The crimson color of the string was chosen to symbolize the danger of the supreme court’s decision and the peril that will follow.
The piece’s title, “Hypocritic Oath”, critiques the Hippocratic oath that doctors take upon graduation. Doctors are responsible for protecting individuals regardless of bias; after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, however, patients’ livelihood is at risk due to the control the government and religion have over the medical institution. “Hypocritic Oath” reveals that the autonomy of both patients and doctors is under the restraint of the government.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
I am a 19-year-old student artist based in Normal, Illinois, and I am currently an art major at Heartland Community College. In the fall of 2023, I will attend Illinois State University to pursue a fine arts degree in graphic design. This is my first exhibition and I am honored to have the opportunity to create art for such an important matter.
© Kennedy Coe