Margarita Dolgova

This project began by creating a methodological index of masculinised steel and concrete, as well as feminised latex and wax, which informed all subsequent making. I explore a sculptural translation of subjective interpretations regarding perceptions of conventional gender norms. The sculptural installations are activated by contexts of the most prominent heteronormative standards of masculine physical strength, independence, resilience and feminine submissiveness, sensitivity, and delicateness.

Reductivity in practice allows space for the exploration of alternate frameworks of masculine and feminine characteristics and relationships. Devoid surfaces let us perceive bodies differently.

I categorised materials in a state of transmutation and metamorphosis, referring to transformation in a sculpture’s form and state as feminine and those that remain in stasis, steel and concrete, as masculine. This enables sculptural tensions between materials, creating a play between masculine and feminine. The material ensemble investigates sculptural possibilities of masculinity and femininity in both flux and stasis states. I investigate this complex grey area by bringing materials in relation to each other to explore how aspects of gender occur across sculptural bodies. I challenge the established index through iterative mindful practice that generates complex compositions where chosen materials work in cooperation with each other’s properties.