Lauren Clark
Diamond in the Rough
Unfortunately, the older I have grown as a woman and reflect on my life I realize how many of my core developmental memories are revolved around abuse. The moment that left one of its largest marks on me was an incident I was only aware of by finding my own underwear in my purse the next day. Unaware how I got home and who dropped me off. A feeling of total loss of self. Worthlessness. That was the first time I felt like a piece of meat.
As I grew older, I think I let that feeling carry over into the way I viewed my own sexuality. I felt unworthy. Not good enough. Used and discarded. I had settled for partners that did not always show me the kindness and adoration I deserved because I felt less than always and was made to feel part of the background for a long time.
This piece is about breaking free, about rising above the feeling of being a lifeless piece of meat and regaining my sparkle. My zest for life, my love for myself and its unfinished nature is a reminder that I am a work in progress myself. That I am always worthy of all that glitters and gold.
I chose a bright color pallet and glitter because I am a child of the late 80s/early 90s and I wanted to use colors that reminded me of a time childhood freedom before ever being tainted by another's touch or feeling discarded.