ARTIST STATEMENT
Cherry Wood is a sculpture of a vulva on testosterone crafted from carved cherry burl. As a trans/nonbinary artist whose work explores themes of identity, transformation, and societal perceptions, I created this piece to challenge preconceived notions about gender and the relationship between genitalia and identity. The creation of this piece is deeply personal, reflecting my own journey of self-acceptance and empowerment.
As a trans/nonbinary person and birth parent of two children who presents in a classically masculine way, working on this sculpture allowed me to confront the stigma and shame often associated with having a body that defies societal expectations.
The choice of cherry burl, with its rich texture and natural beauty beneath rough bark, adds depth to the exploration of transformation and celebrates the beauty and strength of bodies that defy traditional categorizations, inviting dialogue and reflection on the ways in which society constructs and reinforces gender norms.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Kit Robbins is a queer, trans/nonbinary, multidisciplinary artist based in Oakland who focuses primarily on woodworking and metalworking. Their artistic journey began in childhood, learning the craft from their father and grandfather. Robbins earned a BS in engineering from Cal Poly and worked as a product designer before recognizing their deep need to explore their creativity in a more tactile way, at which point they pivoted to more hands-on work, managing a large wood and metal shop and fabricating architectural details for commercial spaces. This unique background, blending classic woodworking techniques and mechanical engineering skills, informs their ability to create imaginative forms that often blur the lines between sculpture and functional furniture. Their artistic process is instinctive, often allowing the form to evolve spontaneously, influenced by the raw material itself. Their use of biomorphic forms is inspired by the complexities of human identity vs. societal perceptions and the process of transformation. By incorporating organic shapes and fluid lines into their sculptures, they evoke a sense of movement and evolution, inviting viewers to contemplate the fluidity of gender, identity, and self-expression. Robbins’s portfolio includes a range of sculptural furniture, lighting fixtures, and other pieces that showcase their understanding of materials and form. They have exhibited and sold their work at various venues and events, including West Coast Craft, Renegade, and West Elm, as well as in Bay Area boutiques and galleries like Therapy and Wild Child.
© Kit Robbins