Abstract

Humor in fine art has been considered low-brow. Frequently, “serious” artists have the notion that using humor or humorous materials reduces the validity of the work. Likewise, feminism seems to have similar implications, in that the word is not taken seriously because of stereotyping; straying away from the original meaning. I assert that humor and feminism can offer valid social and cultural critiques in a relatable way. Discussing concepts such as gender repression, contemporary feminism, and the accessibility of art, with the intention of removing the overarching exclusion often associated with these concepts, has required my work to be accessible to many viewers who may not have had much time in the contemporary art world. My hope is to provide an open and honest doorway to aesthetic appreciators whether they have been exposed to contemporary art and ideas or not, so that there may be an entrance point to discuss gender repression, feminism and their place in the gallery.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Soft sculpture--Themes, motives; Mixed media (Art)--Themes, motives; Feminism in art; Sex role in art; Wit and humor in art

Publication Date

12-1-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Fine Arts Studio (MFA)

Department, Program, or Center

School of Art (CIAS)

Advisor

Elizabeth Kronfield

Advisor/Committee Member

Jane Shellenbarger

Advisor/Committee Member

Thomas Lightfoot

Comments

Physical copy available from RIT's Wallace Library at NB1203 .O37 2015

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

Plan Codes

FNAS-MFA

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