Artist Statement
In my work I explore psychological issues that interest me and that has shaped me. My
work is autobiographically motivated but not a narration.
Interpersonal exchanges consist of many layers and levels of intention; some are explicit
and clear, many are not. My work explores the emotions of involuntary submission and
passivity and I am interested in the cyclical nature of dysfunctional interpersonal
relationships.
Process Statement
In the 1970s the Norwegian social psychologist, politician and feminist Dr. Berit Ås
presented the theory of ''Master Suppression Techniques''. These were a classification of
a range of ways in which people, usually women, were subject to manipulation and
suppression. The five techniques she listed were: Making invisible, Ridiculing,
Heaping Blame and Putting to Shame, Withholding Information and
''Damned if you do - Damned if you don't''. These manipulative strategies were initially
identified as something women were subjected to by men, primarily in the workplace.
I see these techniques as something men and women use equally, in formal and informal
social settings encompassing the political, the public and the domestic arenas.
The strategies are used consciously and unconsciously to achieve a superior role
and position.
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