Gillian Lapuz

(01 For Jurying Consideration) Body

A series of crocheted masks and bodices designed and styled to explore the gender dichotomies through performance and material investigation. This collection attempts to materialize the distortion of gender and enhance the queer body that is both masculine and feminine. Becoming and investigating the intersection of queerness along with the material variety is part of the exploration process.

“This body of work is a material exploration of queer identity through the dissection of dichotomies. Specifically, this capstone investigates facets of abjection and the self in relation to horror and humour. Through a textile based exploration of yarn and the needle in contrast to the physical structure of armature and frames, this body of work reflects the complexities and intersections of queer identity. Attempting to dissect and distort the body and space as a means to highlight the relationship between the abject and disgust, with familiarity and comedy. I develop work that is both cute and unapproachable as a metaphor of the queer egos. This binary of positive and negative emotions is reflected in the material exploration of yarn and wooden frames, through the development of the abject object against the familiar object and through the investigation of horror and humour. A continuous analysis of queer facets that intersect and change is reflected through the process of creating this capstone. Although not developing a singular type of work, from wall hangings to soft sculpture, each piece has its own method of development. Understanding identity as a series of intersecting facets, this thesis is a reflection of binary, gender performativity and emotion. This collection of work is an embodiment and materialization of the queer bodies and egos of the self; This capstone is a personal material expedition of bodily features to continue understanding queer identity.”