Current Snowmobile Dress

I have started welding on the outer sheet metal layer on this dress. I like the reflected light and shadows that are developing on the surface of the sheet metal, but I need to work with it more to remove unwanted ripples.

Conceptually... I like making dress sculptures that have a theme that is culturally labeled as masculine, while keeping the form feminine. Snowmobiling is often looked at as a male's recreational activity. When I go snowmobiling with new people for the first time they are surprised at how I can "keep up with the guys." Why does this have to be a surprise? Why aren't women expected to ride well or fast?

I usually recieve similar reactions when I show people the first two steel dresses I made. People are surprised and ask "you do the welding?" I have also revieced "jokingly" comments that I do not find funny like (and these are NOT my words)...."oh, are you a dike now," "oh, now you're a butch," "can she (referring to me) barrow your workboots," I replied

to the last one with "I don't need to, I have my own, thanks."

Some feel threatened and make "jokes" like these, and others think its great and are impressed.

While researching for a paper I came across an article on a female welder. The article stated that she would get criticized for "showing off" if she welded too well. She said that the men would sometimes get angry if she welded better. Also, the men were verbally abusive to the women who acted masculine and would call them butch.

I find this relating to my work conceptually because I like to address themes that are thought of as being owned by masculinity. My work it personal to me, which is why I like making the work wearable. The dresses are also binding and restricting like the gender stereotypes.