Abstract

This thesis articulates how my own artwork/artistic process is part of a lifelong narrative about my female body and identity, which has unfolded within a patriarchal society and its language. This project of articulation is supported by two related activities. First, I compare my current artwork and life narrative, which are focused on mid-life and menopause, with those of artist Pauline Aitken. Second, by using selected literature from feminist art scholarship, I interpret and contextualise key themes of my own and Aitken's artworks and life narratives. I show how gender influences the woman artist's intent and process: her choice of subject matter and materials, and the resulting narrative. I examine how other women artists and I create a visual vocabulary that is true to our female identities, a vocabulary that can withstand the language of our patriarchal society. This thesis concludes with critical reflections on my own art learning experiences.