The show is on view from February 1st - 24th, 2013.
The reception will be held Friday, February 22nd from 6:00 - 8:00 pm.
 |
| Self Portrait 2, Oil on wooden panel, 30” x 36”, © Miranda Mims Sawyer 2013 |
 |
| Self Portrait 3, Oil on wooden panel, 30” x 36”, © Miranda Mims Sawyer 2012 |
Statement for series:
Growing up, I was repeatedly
directed to stand up straight, suck in my stomach, and wear dark colors to hide
my belly. The ingrained distortion of body image throughout my childhood is why
it has taken me 28 years to finally realize that it’s completely acceptable to
look the way I do. Letting go of the anxiety and seeing my physical self from a
different view point has proven that the emphasis placed on my physical body is
in no way more valid than having a positive self-image.
Standing alone, nude and exposed in
front of a camera started my journey toward self-acceptance and self-confidence.
Staring at my body for hours and painting all the curves, stretch marks and
“imperfections”, with an open and honest hand has allowed for an exploration of
my thoughts and insights of body image. Living in a society that demands “perfection”
and unachievable concepts of beauty, I often struggle with self-perception and
holding myself to these unobtainable standards. Through this series of
paintings, I hope to foster a continued development of a positive self-image.
As my confidence and ability to
deal with this subject has increased I have found a heightened awareness for
others who suffer with these insecurities. Through self-exploration, I allow
viewers to see my progression towards self-acceptance, and allow them to
strengthen or mold their own healthy body image.
