DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/FPVK-E223
Defense Date
2018
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts
Department
Craft/Material Studies
First Advisor
Susan Ganch
Second Advisor
Aaron McIntosh
Third Advisor
Bohyun Yoon
Abstract
Animal imagery has been part of the human effort to understand our place in the world since the beginning of recorded history. Through examining the role and use of animal imagery in the creation of cultural signals, I have developed a framework for my practice. Edgelands employs representations of feral animals as symbols for the “misfit” to emphasize the value of those who do not fit in. My experience as a woman in the field of metal work informs my material choice and process, subverting ironwork motifs and the purpose of gates and boundaries. Edgelands overlaps a series of material contradictions to begin the process of questioning the validity of commonly held delineations. The intersection of environmentalism, craft, and feminism is the space in which I interject the feral animal in an effort to reconcile aspects of my own experience as a misfit and learn about the world through making.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
5-10-2018