Hale Peterke

BFA Drawing

ARTIST STATEMENT: I explore themes and motifs in mythology, folklore, and art. I relate these elements to a modern perpetuation of damaging social constructs and ideals through media and storytelling. Power Reclaimed is a three-part series of paintings which takes the stories of Medusa, Leda, and Persephone, and rewrites their narratives to put power back into their own hands. I use a contrast of dark shadows and vibrant colors to evoke the visceral emotions behind these new scenes. My work highlights the relationship between the historical representations of these mythologies, how they represent women and survivors of abuse, and how those narratives continue to shape how we view survivors today. Power Reclaimed is not a condoning of violent revenge, but rather a metaphor for catharsis and closure from the pain and anger caused by abuse, a reclamation of one’s self.

The relevant context for Medusa’s original story is that she is attacked by Poseidon in Athena’s temple, she is turned into a gorgon, eventually slain by Perseus. My conflict with this story includes previous popular depictions from classic artworks demonize and objectify her, transformed as punishment, slain, then wielded as a weapon after death. The resolution for this conflict is that Medusa’s powers become a gift and Athena becomes her accomplice in exacting her revenge.

The relevant context for Leda’s original story is that she is assaulted by Zeus disguised as a swan, she begets other children integral to Greek mythology. My conflict with this story is that classic depictions in art romanticize her assault. The resolution for this conflict is that defeats Zeus in his swan form.

The relevant context for Persephone’s original story is that Zeus and Hades conspired to make Persephone his bride, she is kidnapped and has little to no agency in the matter. My conflict with this story is that Persephone is depicted as being abducted in most classical imagery. The resolution for this conflict is that she takes Cerberus and Hades’ pitchfork, gaining the upper hand and her freedom.