Maternal Orbits

The Maternal Orbits series  is about reframing how the position of women in familial systems is recorded. Instead of a patriarchal-led, lineary family tree, Maternal Orbits dictates a single woman as the center of an orbital system, reminiscent of lunar or planetary orbits, that  accounts for the entirety of her family: children, siblings, partners, and friends. Maternal Orbits accounts not just for biological connections, but additionally chosen and blended families. Additionally, it records every life creation the woman has made, including miscarriages or children who have passed on. 

The strong position of matriarchs as the central figure of families and communities is also reinforced with the teal outlines of female planets, representing mitochondrial DNA (mDNA), which is based on from female ancestors and is the same imprint from generations before us. 

I first conceptualized this series to process the conflicts and challenges during my postpartum recovery following the birth of my son during the covid pandemic in 2020. For instance, the role of the village versus relying on mothers to be the sole care provider and how knowledge of childbirth, miscarriage, reproduction and childcare are kept secret or even taboo to discuss publicly. 

The series is also a reflection on the statement that mothers can never be serious artists, when having and raising children is inherently a creative act. Rejecting the notion of solitary artistic pursuit, I celebrate the power of community and familial support in nurturing creativity. This series challenges the prevailing stigma that suggests women cannot thrive as artists while embracing motherhood. In crafting Maternal Orbits, I sought to honor the profound impact of every individual, past and present, on our lives. Through personal reflections and the influence of revered female artists such as Kara Walker, Yoko Ono, and Georgia O'Keeffe, I wove a tapestry of interconnectedness and resilience.

While this series represents a culmination of my artistic vision, it also serves as a springboard for future exploration. As I look ahead, I am eager to delve deeper into themes of maternity, femininity, and creativity, continuing to challenge conventions and redefine the narrative of women in art.