OUR HISTORY, OUR VOICES PROJECT
The Mera Ragsdale Exhibit
About Her Exhibit…
My paintings question the way we look at feminine bodies especially in comparison to how masculine bodies are viewed. In art history, the objectification and presentation of female bodies and an accepted way to present and view them has long been prevalent, specifically as non-threatening objects of sexual desire.
My work questions these long accepted practices and empowers my subjects to visually challenge the viewer. I use pastel colors which are generally seen as feminine, soft, and sweet, in an aggressive manner. This use of color questions the socially ingrained views of what is perceived as “feminine” and what that word means.
I select the individuals I paint from friends and family. Their personality gives voice to the work, giving them space to make powerful statements through their presence.
This piece came from a photo of my mother when she was the age I am now, holding me as a baby. The look on her face reflected the same look on my face in photos of me holding my own daughters, and this generational tie between women felt worth exploring.
Connect with Mera Ragsdale »
Instagram: @MeraKeri | Etsy Shop: http://meraragsdale.com
More Exhibits
The Drocella Mugorewera Exhibit
I am a woman of faith, and I use that to help people to reach their potential. I am proud to lead an organization that welcomes refugees and asylees and helps them to be self-sufficient and to become productive and contributing members of our community. I am also inspired by people who are successful in making an impact to transform people's lives.
The Veronica Jones Exhibit
My name is Veronica and I'm the co-creator at Dale+Aran. I live in the US in Tennessee with my husband (the other half of Dale+Aran) and our 2 year old daughter. I changed the name of our shop a year or so ago when I first started working with clay. Dale is my Dad's middle name, mine and my daughter's. Aran is part of my daughter’s first name plus it is my very favorite place in the world....the Aran Islands in Ireland.
The Emily McClenagan Exhibit
Jane & Pearl started during my twins' nap in 2015 as a way for me to create as well as give back to others. I am partnering with Thrive Parkridge in East Knoxville to amplify their work and donate profits to help with projects such as renovating rooms and spaces in their 100-year-old building. I love to paint live at weddings, watercolor home portraits, and of course whimsical florals.