austejaveverskyte

utopia

Sculpting the Female Body: A Conceptual Installation and Publication

In this project, I explore​​​​​​​ the practices of female body modification that have shaped and continue to shape beauty standards from ancient times to the present day. I examine how various historical and contemporary means, such as corsets, makeup, and plastic surgery, have influenced perceptions of the body and it’s value. My goal is not to condemn these practices, but to reveal them as phenomena that highlight our society’s values, fears, and desires. The project consists of an artistic sculpture and a publication. The sculpture is made from unexpected materials to convey a sense of incompleteness. It appears fragile and imperfect, as if frozen between becoming and decaying. This symbolizes the female body as a constantly changing object. In the publication „Utopia”, I visually and conceptually reflect on the influence of beauty standards. I created unexpected photographs, images, photomanipulations, and meaningful phrases that raise various questions. Through this work, I want to show that even through the lens of modification, it is possible to stand out, create, and not be afraid to be uncomfortable or unusual. The pursuit of perfection often destroys individuality.

This project addresses important issues related to the influence of beauty standards on women’s self-perception and societal expectations. It raises questions about the impact of the myth of perfection, which often suppresses individuality and naturalness. The aim of the project is to show that body modification can be not only an adaptation to standards, but also a means of self-expression and uniqueness. It also draws attention to the prevailing standardization in society and encourages a critical evaluation of beauty norms, which are often unattainable and psychologically harmful.