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This
performance is based on the cosmetic procedures employed to improve
the aesthetic appearance of and tighten
the vagina for improved
sexual functioning. In the performance the artist adopts the role of
both patient and surgeon, Using a specially designed “Self-Surgery Chair” to
perform a sterile surgical procedure on her own vagina questioning the
way in which women choose self-enslavement to the sanitizing effect of
the beauty myth. The performance procedure effectively adds aesthetic effect
and tightens the artist’s vagina through the symbolic action of tying
it up with pretty ribbons. This procedure is projected live and in close-up
on a large screen during the performance, exploding the myths that shroud
the female genitalia in secrecy. Another projection displays vaginas manipulated
to mouth the words of two male plastic surgeons as they discuss the benefits
of their treatments, investigating the role of these surgeons as spokespersons
for the female body. “Tight Lipped Labia” questions if cosmetic
surgery offers a means of female empowerment or subjection, examining
the negative effects for a female aesthetic by the demonization and deliberate
containment of female sexuality. |
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