Abstract
I’m finally finding safety through learning to set boundaries in my life, which has carried into my artwork as physical barriers, whether worn or observed. Through the protection of volume, space, netting, and sharp objects, I can reclaim control over my immediate surroundings and my body. My sculptures were constructed to protect the body. As I dove deeper into why that brings me comfort, I realized it’s a reaction to the current culture that objectifies women’s bodies. This is specifically significant to me as I grew up subjugated to purity culture within the Evangelistic Christian church, which often leaves young women shameful of themselves. Additionally, experiencing assault has compounded this feeling of shame and lack of control over my body. My thesis work is a response to that feeling. I am finding healing through boundaries, finding safety in the Between.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Art metal-work--Themes, motives; Wearable art--Themes, motives; Boundaries in art
Publication Date
5-5-2022
Document Type
Thesis
Student Type
Graduate
Degree Name
Metals and Jewelry Design (MFA)
Department, Program, or Center
School of Art (CAD)
Advisor
Leonard Urso
Advisor/Committee Member
Juan Carlos Caballero-Perez
Advisor/Committee Member
Elizabeth Kronfield
Recommended Citation
Benkovich, Abigail, "Between" (2022). Thesis. Rochester Institute of Technology. Accessed from
https://repository.rit.edu/theses/11169
Campus
RIT – Main Campus
Plan Codes
METAL-MFA