Embracing Sexual Freedom: My Artwork 'Still Not Asking for It'
Updated: Dec 22, 2022
Creating my latest artwork, "Still Not Asking for It," was a deeply personal and therapeutic experience for me. I wanted to celebrate sexual freedom in all its forms and call for the respect and autonomy that everyone deserves.
Sexual freedom is a fundamental human right, meaning that everyone has the right to define, explore, and experience their own sexuality in a way that feels authentic and true to them, without fear of repression or violence. It gives people the opportunity to live a whole, open life where they can develop real, close relationships, have positive self-esteem, and love and accept themselves and others for who they are.
Unfortunately, for too many people, sexual freedom is still out of reach. Many face discrimination, violence, and stigma based on their sexuality or gender identity. This is why it is so important to fight for sexual freedom and to support and uplift marginalised voices in this struggle.
I began by sketching out my ideas digitally and deciding on a colourful and vibrant aesthetic to match the joyous theme of the piece. As I worked on the background and layers, I found myself becoming more spontaneous and experimental with my art. The ideas seemed to flow and I was able to let go and have fun with the process.
As I worked on "Still Not Asking for It," I found myself becoming more spontaneous and experimental with my art. The ideas seemed to flow and I was able to let go and have fun with the process.
In the centre of the artwork, you will see a drawing of "The Birth of Venus" by William Adolphe Bouguereau. I chose to use this image as a symbol of rebirth in sexual culture and the breaking free of heteronormative gender roles. In this piece, I have depicted Venus as "burning in hell," as a way of rejecting the societal and religious expectations placed on women and our sexuality.
But make no mistake, this is not a somber or melancholic piece. It is a hurrah! A celebration of sexual positivity and freedom. It is a call to embrace our sexual selves and demand the respect and autonomy we deserve. No one should ever be made to feel ashamed of their sexuality or be denied consent.
My artwork touches on many themes, including religion, politics, culture, and social issues. I believe that we are all a part of a revolution towards true sexual freedom and equality, and I hope that my artwork can inspire others to join in this fight. Let's embrace our sexuality and celebrate it in all its diversity and beauty.
The original piece and the limited edition fine art print are both available on my website now.
