Protectors of the Womb, 2024

(Created with the mountains of Northern Morocco)

We are taught to conquer our bodies, to view them as territories to be controlled rather than cherished. We are conditioned to control, belittle, and constantly question our bodies, fostering a sense of detachment. This commodification of our bodies turns them into objects to be manipulated and perfected according to external standards. With every ailment our bodies endure, we see vilify our bodies rather than offer nurturance. In doing so, it forces us to colonize our own bodies, stripping away our natural connection and inherent respect for ourselves.

For some people, bears represent the protectors of children. I call on bears to protect me at my core. I ask the bears not to protect me from my body, but protect my body from colonial ways of thinking. I ask for this protection in my womb to remember that how I learn to relate with my body does not just impact just me- it impacts the generations to come after.