EVERY PHASE #1 - FOLLICULAR

THE GREAT AWAKENING

As estrogen rises during the follicular phase, the 'first' phase of the new cycle, it boosts the brain's working memory capability--the ability to handle complex processing tasks.  Estrogen's effect on the brain greatly improves the ability to solve problems, strategize, and plan.   

I have been marinating on creating more 3-dimensional work, employing the energy of the natural world--specifically here with copper glass & clear quartz spires.  This one is definitely meant to be experienced in real life--photos just don't do this beauty justice! 

The first piece of the 'Every Phase' series I'm beginning with 'The Great Awakening' --reflective, literally and metaphorically.  The sophisticated glimmer of new beginnings with the contrast of the negative space--representing the blank space being discovered in the days to come.   

The direction of her glance is what has turned to or 'synced with' the quartz and copper, symbolizing the transition of the follicle-stimulating hormone sent by the hypothalamus to your pituitary gland, telling your body to release another egg.  Egg follicles swell to prepare and estrogen increases to thicken the uterine lining so that it can host an egg--just as the possibilities in our lives reveal themselves so that we can discover them.   

This phase is all about a fresh start + cognitive creativity.   This is a highly creative 'blank canvas' time which is why I have fused the raw material components of crystal, resin & wheat paste together.  A special place is occupied by precious stones and precious metals whose virtues, arising from their beauty, rarity, exceptional strength & light, make them resemble stars.  Glass is an impressive material, although, symbolically, it is commonly associated with ideas exactly the opposite of longevity and eternity. It's symbolism is dual. It represents things that are fragile, but also things that are protective and strong. 

And as for copper, the ancient Greeks associated it with the goddess of love and beauty Aphrodite or Venus.  This belief remains till this day, and it is a known fact that the Copper is an alchemical symbol is the same as that of the planet Venus, and therefore it is connected to emotions, beauty, love and justice. 

Clear Quartz gemstone is valued for its piezoelectric properties that can transform heat and pressure into electromagnetic energy. It is often used for its ability to amplify energy, focus, transform and store energy. For this purpose, this crystal found many different purposes in devices all around us - from memory chips, computers, electronic devices, receivers, transmitters, microphones, and smartphones.  When kept at the working place, the positive energy of this stone can transform critical word and remove negativity.

More info on Follicular phase here

More info on infradian rhythm + hormonal health: Womancode + In the flo

Below is my full artist statement from my 13-year Every Phase art series in a more aesthetically pleasing video format.  If you haven't read it, watch + read all the way through.  It's worth it.  Or, view it in an email layout here