Female Corporeality and Religion 2023

Description

The series of monumental paper cut-outs ("Feedback", "Restoration," "Rebirth," "Grass Maiden," "Reincarnation", "Transformation," "Natural Weaving") presents anatomically and biologically altered women and other beings connected to nature, who take care of nature as much as they do of themselves. Female inherent religiosity is a form of experiencing in everyday life the reality of the image of God. One aspect of this religiosity is the perception of one’s own body as a locus of spiritual power. Monumental female figures can be seen as symbols of feminine power and motherhood, embodying the spiritual, "feminine" perception of the world and of themselves that is harmonious and wholesome. It is expressed in a natural elasticity, non-violent coexistence and mutual exchange. Thus, the intertwining of human figures with plants demonstrates the connection between the two parts of God's creation – humans and nature. This unity with nature fosters a person's spiritual growth and well-being. Such an approach can help women see their bodies as sacred places to be protected and respected.

Maryna Vashchenko

Maryna Vashchenko (b. 1982) is a Ukrainian artist who works in various art forms (painting, graphics, paper cutting, and handpainted cards). She teaches at the Kyiv Academy of Art & Design and between 2009 and 2019, she organized numerous exhibitions of student works. She founded the creative collaboration Hota Ruta, within which the exhibition projects "KRAFTORIY" (a paper cutting competition) and "Art Parallels" (a graphics competition) are conducted. Between 2007 and 2019, the artist held over ten solo exhibitions.