Post Tomboy

Abstract

This thesis paper gives context to the ceramic sculptures which make up the exhibition Post Tomboy. Communicated through clay, a material which expresses the malleability of the body and of the self, these sculptures showcase the complicated journey of understanding a gender and sexuality which exists outside of the cultural norms. Using personal narrative, examples from other artists, as well as brief histories and definitions of gender diverse and LGBTQ+ identities, this paper goes into depth about each sculpture within the exhibition and how they relate to me as a queer and gender non-binary individual. Portrayed as animal-human hybrids and shapeshifters, these figures speak about queer experiences and deconstruct the notions of gender to find a place where non-binary identities exist. As each animal comes with their own physical qualities and mythological associations, therefore the therianthropic qualities of these figures shed light on a humanistic characteristic or feeling which is invisible to the naked eye. Queerness and gender identities outside of the binary can be isolating when existing in a heteronormative society. By sharing my personal journey, my work normalizes and celebrate these forms of identities.