Boobage - The Noticeable Presence of Breasts by Jeanette Eldridge
Mixed media, 65 x 54 cm
£150
As a rather literal representation of my journey from diagnosis to recovery, the first depiction is of biopsies (under the huge plasters!), which were done at my recall mammogram appointment, confirming two “areas of concern”; as I’m sure many will recognise, the shock of hearing this and seeing the results report took me into a world often represented in The Scream by Edvard Munch.
The X-ray images of my breast and tumour lead to further constructions to show how the scarring and bruising progressed post- op. What I hadn’t expected was the turquoise dye from around the tumour site would pool into my nipple and only fade completely many months later!
What helped me to maintain a positive outlook was understanding the risks and outcomes beyond surgery, which meant I could make an informed decision about therapy and future medication.
Subsequent depictions show my further recovery, to a stage where my scars are almost invisible, and I celebrate my good luck. I also drew inspiration for my artwork through seeing Women and Empowerment by Marina Barbera and Gabriela Basin recently in Spain.
Ref: #016
