Lay Lady Lay #1 by GJ Gillespie.
Collage on canvas. 10 x 18. 2023. 

LAY LADY LAY SERIES
Accepted for publication by Fauxmoir Literary Magazine August 2023.

Artist Statement for "Lay Lady Lay #1" and "Lay Lady Lay #2" by GJ Gillespie.

As an artist, I am thrilled to have my collages, "Lay Lady Lay #1" and "Lay Lady Lay #2," selected for publication in Fauxmoir Literary Magazine. These two pieces are part of a three-part series that explores themes of art history and the objectification of women.

Inspired by Picasso's groundbreaking work, "Young Ladies of Avignon," these collages are created using leftover fragments from a larger project. They serve as a satirical commentary on the male gaze prevalent throughout art history. In an effort to challenge societal norms, I juxtapose female figures sourced from 1950s and 60s pop culture and soap ads with drawings of ancient Greek statues of male heroes and athletes. This contrast highlights the mesmerizing effect of feminine mystique on the male psyche.

The composition of these collages is layered, both visually and conceptually. The figures are placed upon a landscape featuring concrete walls and steps of ruined military bunkers, symbolizing the conflicts and complexities inherent in relationships between the sexes. To create depth and texture, I incorporate layers of tissue and cloth, while utilizing found papers and pencil marks to create an antique-like patina.

Thank you for the opportunity to share my artistic vision with Fauxmoir Literary Magazine and its readers. I hope that these collages provoke thought and encourage dialogue about the representation of women in art history and contemporary society.

Sincerely,
GJ Gillespie artist
https://www.gjgillespieartistic.com/

Lay Lady Lay #2 by GJ Gillespie.
Collage on canvas. 10 x 18. 2023. 

Lay Lady Lay #3 by GJ Gillespie.
Collage on canvas. 10 x 18. 2023.