The Platinum Eaters | white bitches

I am fascinated by white women.

Actually, obsessive may be more accurate. Their faces, and bodies and fantasies have become my own- more than I’d like to admit, especially as a Strong Black Woman™. From glass ceilings to glass slippers, these stories intrude upon my psyche and sometimes, many times, I empathize in ways that are not reciprocated. But rather than bemoan the disconnect between myself and my white sistren, which is only emphasized by the everyday fictions I (we all) use to create individuality, I think it a better exercise to embrace the allure. Instead of taking furtive glances, I should get a better look at this particular intersection of race and gender, by examining it unabashed.

The Platinum Eaters | white bitches is an unapologetic investigation of these standard bearers of feminine beauty and womanhood. By using mass marketed publications (i.e. magazines), cosmetics, string, apparel patternmaking techniques, as well as, body painting, scarification and indigenous tattooing motifs, I slash, spread, pivot, combine, and stitch images that illustrate a meticulous attention to female whiteness. Through these actions I will begin to dissect the influence of these standards with a critical rather than judgmental eye.

I will be introducing completed selections from this series at Capricious Space on November 5th, 2009. http://www.capriciousspace.com/

For more information CONTACT: Molly Surno (molly@mollysurno.com)