Primary Medium

Photography

Address

681 Morgan Avenue
Studio F1
Brooklyn, 11222

Artist Statement

“Stepping on Apron Strings” is a collection of aprons made from photographs printed on fabric and sewn into domestic garments worn for work. Aprons are soft, utilitarian objects that are bound to the body by strings that restrain the wearer to the expectation of the feminine ideal. By stepping on apron strings we prevent forward motion towards autonomy. There is a dangerous movement backward towards traditional expectations of women and although there’s beauty in domestic tradition, the apron strings can be binding. However aesthetically appealing and rewarding the patriarchy wants domestic and traditionally feminine work to appear, the true intentions of these movements are based in the desire to control women. The utility of women through this perspective has a shelf life, and the value of women is degraded even more with diminishing youth and fertility. The included photographs illustrate domestic scenes and still lives incorporating themes of attraction, repulsion, abundance and decay. Catholic symbolism and images of the Madonna are present as an expression of the unattainable, virginal archetype. “Stepping on Apron Strings” is an ongoing project as threats to women’s autonomy continue to increase.

Links

Website: https://www.sylvieharris.com/
Instagram: @sylvie_harris