Breast Cancer Series
In 2022 I was diagnosed with breast cancer from a routine mammogram. I underwent treatment which consisted of three different surgeries including a bilateral mastectomy. In my current work I choose to paint my scars and unfamiliar body. I am exploring the depiction of my struggle to redefine my self image as a woman without the curve and weight of breasts.
This body of work has drawn me to a more abstract approach to painting including the layering of collage materials and stitching directly on the canvas. Text based on comments by doctors and friends during my treatments underpin much as the work. Painting on top of overflowing and overlapping text expresses my grief and anger. Stitching directly on the canvas with yarn and thread reframes my sutures and scars through the lens of darning and mending, traditionally women’s work, transforming an object ripped and torn into a material stronger and more beautiful by the act of repair. In addition to these paintings I am exploring mixed media drawings based on mammography films taken during my diagnosis.
