MR & MS OLYMPIA

Mr & Ms Olympia series
2015-16, cross-stitches on aida, 20 cm (diameter)

Challenging the perception of the annual international bodybuilding competition.

Fascinated with the extreme exhibition of masculinity, a dialogue of antithesis and symbiosis is created in the portrayal of these champions through the effeminate art of embroidery. The victors are emasculated as their final poses are transformed from a Herculean moment in the spotlight to a delicate cross-stitch, whilst the depiction of taut, bulging muscles brings about a new sensibility and contemporary twist to needlework.