Page 74 - Jessica K Ballantyne Studio Zine 2020

Collages

hat a story these have to tell! Inspired by controversial erotic literature, the
following collages were a powerful reaction to certain provocative early
W20th century erotic literary works. Their explicit, surreal and controversial
elements with regard to sexuality, identity and power made the stories fascinating to use
as an inspirational theme. The collages below are inspired by the following erotic (and
somewhat disturbing) novels: ‘Story of the Eye’, ‘Dream Story’, ‘Story of O’ and ‘120 days of
Sodom’.

hese novels encompass a world of themes I am influenced by, such as: the sub-
conscious and psychoanalysis, eroticism, sexuality, and subversive imagery. Many
Tof these collages are made using a range of processes, tactile objects and materi-
als. Primarily using the surrealist technique of automatism, I put the pieces together in a
frenzy of inspiration. I had no idea how the image would come together, but instead relied
on the materials to guide me to a final composition.

or this series, themes of identity, identification with the body and its image, desire,
sadomasochism, abuse and violence crop up regularly. Underlying these themes
Fare stories of a lighter sensuality, eroticism, ecstasy, and a confrontation with the
female image. There is often a critical humour in these works, regarding what Western
society deems to be acceptable in portraying the female body. The link between eroticism
and death is quite prominent in the novels as well as the collages.

Eye Candy 1 Eye Candy 2
3d collage on paper (framed) 3d collage on paper (framed)
Size: 12 x 12cm Size: 12 x 12cm
#33 #34

Spectacle

Lace, spectacle frames, paper
Size: 30.5 x30.5cm
#35

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