The Feminine Experience

View fullsize

Layla L.

charcoal and graphite

• Artist Statement

  This artwork is a fusion of charcoal and graphite; I wanted to display beauty in the simple experience of being raised as a woman. A girl is shown helping her friend apply mascara on her bottom lashes. Many women, including myself, grow up with this experience; sadly, we rarely see this in male friendships, and many of us take this for granted. For many, a seemingly ordinary scene represents the connection and how women tend to protect and support each other and bond through that. I honor this as an Iranian woman of coming together, even if it is as simple as getting ready, even if our presence is the only thing to be shared. I wanted to honor this moment in many young girls' lives that needs more gratitude, and hopefully, everyone can learn from the friendship of two seemingly ordinary girls.

• Creative Statement

  Growing up with a Muslim mom and a Jewish dad, I struggled with finding a community to find the right words to express how I felt. The art world accepts individuality and promotes it; I am able to convey what I am unable to put into words.