Statement:

As a reflection of her military experience, Jessica explores the juxtaposition of US service women in combat with the domestic and decorative nature of heirloom tableware. Using the notion of “serving” she creates ornate decorative forms associated with serving, depicting military women serving their country. Female soldiers in a war-torn landscape are surrounded, not by enemies but by traditional floral borders embellished with gold and soft feminine colors. By combining military iconography with traditional floral elements and botanical patterns she subverts the once benign decoration while creating a personal narrative and contemporary social commentary. Through non-traditional imagery Jessica seeks to challenge the entrenched ideas of domesticity and gender roles while exposing the social and cultural issues faced by military women. This work encourages dialogue about pervasive social dynamics that prevent something perceived as violent and destructive from also being considered beautiful.