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 Liberty Collins Exhibit
I'm an East TN native who grew up playing outside crushing poke berries, painting on tin with rocks, and digging in the red clay of my backyard. Now I’m a potter! I started my body vessel project in September of 2020 after a diagnosis of a chronic illness. Since then, it's blossomed into a wonderful exploration of loving my body, its limits, and overcoming shame around my illness and imperfections.
The Emerald Green Exhibit
My name is Emerald Green and I am a photographer in Atlanta, GA. My submissions include images of women throughout the 2020 protests that were held throughout GA as well as Louisville, KY. I thought about what was asked of me, about me telling about myself and my work. While I was at different protests, I saw that there were only white men who were capturing moments.
The Archie Liggett Exhibit
I am inspired by grandmother. She grew up in the Roaring Fork community in Gatlinburg, TN. She lived to be 94 yrs old and loved to make things. First, out of need then for joy. She was fantastic. I hand stamp metal and vintage flatware to make jewelry and gifts. I have some of my work in local shops in Clinton, TN where I live.