A distaff, beyond its practical use for holding fibers before spinning, carries deep historical significance as a symbol of power, survival, and family care. In this installation, I create human-scale distaffs that represent the resilience of individuals and families.
Thread, embodying both strength and fragility, serves as a metaphor for life experiences: single strands may seem weak, but together they have tremendous strength. Historically, fathers crafted distaffs for their daughters, symbolizing societal views on gender and property, often decorated with protective symbols or bells to ward off evil spirits. Young men would also carve distaffs for women they admired, with intricate designs reflecting their affection.
This piece suggests a dialogue among three figures, with the viewer as the fourth participant. I celebrate the everyday beauty of domestic objects and use symbolism to highlight women's strength. The repetitive acts of care I perform as a mother reflect my belief that these contribute to nurturing strong individuals and creating a supportive environment, which I view as my most significant work.
Basswood, thread, wax, 2004
