School of Art and Design Alumni Exhibition 2021

Marissa Saneholtz
Graduated 2011

By referencing housewife ideals that were created in the early and mid 20th century and putting a modern twist on vintage graphics, my work is an attempt to converse about the loss of innocence, gender issues, and my search for identity in today’s society.

The closer I get to defining my own place in the world, the less idealistic I become. In the world of comic books and fairytales, the good guy always wins and prince charming saves the damsel in distress. This work attempts to reference those ideals with cynicism and sarcasm.

Current politics and the dawning realization that ignorance is prevalent in our country, has caused me to look at the world through a new set of eyes. Although this particular body of work is not to convey a total loss of hope, it is a reflection of some of the shame that I am currently feeling at my inability and lack of effort to create change for the better.

A bowl has been created that cannot serve for its original utilitarian purpose. Although the figure pictured has removed the constraining pearl necklace that defines her as the quintessential “ideal housewife”, she is still contained by a set of societal standards. The large string of pearls that border the bowl also help to render it useless. The decorative representation of a throw pillow references our material driven culture and how even though we try to make good decisions, we sometimes lose sight of the bigger picture to focus on our own wellbeing. The good intention is still there, if we can only see it and bring it to the forefront.

The statement left a bitter taste in her mouth, Copper, vitreous enamel, sterling silver, silk, pearls, 5″ x 5″ x 1″, 2018