Cameryn Chorley 
BA 2D Studio and BA Psychology

As an art student, I am drawn to drawing and painting inspired by psychology, aiming to evoke thought and emotion. Pursuing a double major in 2-Dimensional Studio and Psychology, I channel my experiences and reflections as a woman into my work. My art incorporates fragmented symbols from everyday life, along with realistic and surrealistic influences. By painting from original reference materials and collages, I explore the complexities of womanhood through my unique style and color theory.

In this exhibition, I aim to encapsulate the psychology surrounding the powers, privileges, and barriers faced by women based on my own experiences. My goal is to raise awareness and express my feelings about how internalized misogyny continues to affect women. At the same time, I want to celebrate the beauty, strength, and power of femininity.

Through self-portraiture, I intend to convey that these issues reflect my individual identity rather than the experiences of all women. Large wild cats symbolize the instinct women have to protect themselves from becoming victims of men, mirroring how wild cats instinctively defend themselves in a fight-or-flight situation against predators. Conversely, symbols the flowers represent traits commonly associated with women, including beauty, grace,
and fragility. Just as flowers decay over time and lose their value, societal standards often dictate that a woman's worth diminishes with age.

Additionally, symbols of fertility, such as pregnant iconography and papaya seeds, showcase the power and strength inherent in a woman's ability to bear children. In contrast, one of my self-portraits depicts me as pregnant and lying down alone, highlighting the political controversy surrounding the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This decision represents a setback in women's progress, affecting their control over personal health choices.

I believe that many artists' works ultimately reflect their beliefs, drawing inspiration from those who share similar ideas and styles. Art can be a powerful means of giving voice to issues and fostering historical change. I hope this exhibition encourages those with privilege to consider how they can become better allies to women and other marginalized groups. Additionally, I
aspire for women who view this exhibition to feel seen and to relate to its themes in some way.