CRISTIN MILLETT

An extension of my research includes “sacred anatomy,” the pre-16th century practice of dismembering cadavers, particularly nobility and saints, in order to disperse the remains/relics for widespread worship of relics. This series of sculptures draws from Catholicism as a starting point, but the pieces were triggered by our current turbulent political climate. Threats to gender and racial equality, women’s empowerment, reproductive rights, voting rights, and intersectional human rights are shredding the fabric of society. Growing disparities permeate our daily lives, fueled by divisive speech and hateful actions. Through my work, I pose questions, raise awareness, and sound the alarm.

A Miscarriage of Justice references St. Lucy, the patron saint of the blind. According to legend, St. Lucy vowed to remain a virgin in the tradition of Agatha and was persecuted for her Christian beliefs. Roman officials forced her into prostitution and condemned her to a brothel. After a variety of attempts to kill her, her neck was pierced by a sword and she finally died, but not before her eyes were plucked out. Holding the eyes on a plate symbolizes victory over evil. My work questions how we perceive the female body and brings awareness to my viewers of their physicality, their sexuality, and all its implications.