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 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.
The Shannon Deana Johnson Exhibit
I am a Knoxville, TN based mixed media painter. My process is intuitive. I work to create a balance between harmony and contrast, simplicity and accumulation, and stillness and motion. As the painting progresses, I often add more concrete elements such as botanical or figurative shapes. In this latest series called, “Story of a Girl,” I have been exploring the use of imagery connected to the idea of femininity and aspects of it that are meaningful to me.
The Mera Ragsdale 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.