Monica Bonvicini

Bitch”, “Vamp (light)”, “Vamp (pink)” are works on paper by Monica Bonvicini, delving into the complex connotations of words often wielded to define women. Within these pieces, she actively engages in the feminist journey to reclaim gendered slurs historically hurled as insults towards females, beckoning us to embrace this term through a more progressive lens.

The work features a compelling silkscreened chain pattern as a backdrop, accompanied by a cut-out paper element that highlight stenciled letters in bold pink and white, spelling out the words "bitch". The deliberate juxtaposition of ideas concerning assertiveness and sexual liberation against a recurring chain motif serves as a thematic cornerstone in Bonvicini's exploration. By merging two pivotal elements of her artistic practice—materials sourced from the traditionally male-dominated industry of construction and a conceptual use of language—this work cast a revealing light on the deeply ingrained sexism within commonplace expressions.

Jo Freeman, in her 1969 feminist manifesto, boldly declares, "We must be strong, we must be militant, we must be dangerous. We must realize that Bitch is Beautiful and that we have nothing to lose. Nothing whatsoever." Several decades later, "Bitch" takes a bold stance in challenging the stereotypes linked to individuals who defy socially accepted behavioral patterns. These works actively encourage viewers to reassess societal norms and reconsider how we perceive and describe ourselves as women.