Comet, Commit Series

This series is now part of the Wallace Arts Trust

Gloriavale

Within the community of Gloriavale, women are esteemed as providers of life. To give birth is highly valued. The paradox occurs in their subjugation. They are not represented in the decision making of the community.

I have placed the women of Gloriavale in front of a painting from McCahon’s comet series. Placing this woman in a gallery context is incongruous with the skill set she is given in the community. Her education is unlikely to have stretched to McCahon, or for that matter to Halley’s Comet.

 Using targets is a play on the media and public fascination with the sect.

McCahon’s ‘I stand up’ sees the headless woman in a shorter dress, defiant.