Flight of Voices

By Javiera Estrada

In Salt + Sea, the artist intentionally places women in their most vulnerable form —naked—back into a natural environment in order to display their strength against the elements. The interaction between the two forces narrows the gap between society’s hackneyed constructs of women's place in society and the unfailing honesty of the nude form— a place where her spirit can run free. The sand and rocks are representative of the harsh cultural environment, while the water demonstrates the more “fluid” nature of women.
The juxtaposition of black and white is representative of the sun, which is Light or Life, and the moon, DEATH, a mirror that reflects the light. Both are essential in creating a balance between the two parallel worlds. In addition, the latter polarity is symbolic of the division between our current social and monetary disparity between men and women and specifically, African American women. Historically, African American women are rarely photographed on sand or sea due to the racial bias atmosphere and fear instilled by their oppressors. This fear not only disempowers but suppresses a huge demographic of women in our country.
At the same time, the ocean's multi-faceted cycle has often been likened to the female temperament; a great force. Therefore, it is no surprise that salt, a vital element of the sea, has been referred to as feminine in numerous cultural mythologies as well as embodying healing properties. Thus, it is imperative that we view women as the “salt” of our communities, the essential element needed in healing this antiquated imbalance.