About the photographs

When I initially envisioned the Kevlar®kimono, I thought it would be simply a beautiful garment, lined with the bulletproof fabric. The metaphor would be one of safe space, and it would be fairly simple.

What I did not understand, though, was that there are many stories that needed to be represented in this piece.

What was originally going to be a sewing project has become an artwork that calls for public participation. I have begun collecting photographs and contact information for people who were willing to be photographed or tell their stories. Anyone who believes in personal reproductive choice could be photographed for the piece.

At the WIN rally on September 28, 2012, I took about 50 portraits of women, men and children. But I need about 300 photos to complete the piece, so I will be asking for others to pose or send in their images. (Sign up for the e-mail list at right if you’re interested.)

Each photo will be paired with a unique collage image and printed on fabric squares that will be attached to the outer surface of the kimono. It’s a lot of production work, but each one of those unique pairings represents a decision that is also unique.

I will be needing a lot of photos, so please consider letting me take your photo (or sending one if you’re not in Flagstaff.) I will post info soon about that, once I figure out some specs.