In my artistic practice, I imagine women as central figures, crafting pensive and poetic figurative sculptures that navigate the nuanced terrains of identity, hybridity, and womanhood.
My work is deeply rooted in soft activism, shaped by historical narratives, feminist theory, social justice, and the exploration of my (hidden) African American heritage. I am drawn to the complexities of identity and the societal constructs that frame our understanding of it. Through my sculptures, I seek to uncover and amplify hidden narratives, revealing truths that challenge and enrich contemporary discourse.
Cultural hybridity is a recurring theme in my work, expressed through the integration of mythology and symbolism from diverse traditions. I employ elements such as feathers and dogwood flowers, imbuing them with layered meanings that resonate across cultural and spiritual boundaries instance, the Deer Woman, a powerful symbol of feminine authority in Native American cultures, finds echoes in similar archetypes within Celtic mythology, which I incorporate to deepen the narrative complexity of my pieces.
Mirrors and reflections are pivotal in my exploration of identity. These elements transform my sculptures into interactive objects, inviting viewers to engage in self-reflection and consider the relationship between their own identities and the work. In "Mirror, Mirror," the interplay of a mirrored face and a reflective ground creates an infinite dialogue of reflection between surfaces, offering both introspective and futuristic dimensions.
The concept of the breastplate, as a metaphor for resilience and self-preservation, first appeared in my sculpture "The Journey," rendered in gold luster with feline-inspired markings. These unique motifs recur in "The Unknown”. "What We Carry" draws from the ornate armor and decorative craftsmanship of the Renaissance, merging this historical inspiration with reflections on my personal journey and the collective experiences of women. Dogwood flowers, emblematic of endurance and affection, are paired with shards of mica and beads, evoking the fragments of lived experiences and the enduring resilience of women’s lives.
A transformative moment in my practice occurred during the creation of "What We Carry." In its third firing, a slit emerged above the heart as I pushed the glaze to its limits. Embracing this unanticipated event, I interpreted it as a contribution from the universe, a serendipitous addition to the piece’s narrative. In today’s sociopolitical climate, as women’s reproductive rights are increasingly under threat, this work resonates profoundly, embodying both the vulnerabilities and the enduring strength of women.
Through my sculptures, I aim to create a space for critical engagement with themes of identity, resilience, and the power of untold stories. My work seeks to bridge the personal and the universal, inviting audiences to reflect on the enduring narratives that define and connect us..
- Jocelyn Braxton Armstrong