Don't be so emotional
2024
Engraving and spray paint on found metal shelving elements
76 x 100 x 3 cm
Engraved and spray-painted with the words “STAY PROFESSIONAL” onto found metal shelving, Don’t Be So Emotionalconfronts the expectation to contain emotion and remain composed. In a patriarchal capitalist system that values productivity, control and professionalism, emotional expression is often dismissed as excessive or irrational. The demand to “not be emotional” is particularly gendered, used to discredit women and gender minorities when they express anger, disagreement or intensity. The title and engraved words expose the absurdity of this demand, while the work reclaims emotional expression as a form of resistance.
Photography by Fredirick Vidal
Don't be so emotional
2024
Engraving and spray paint on found metal shelving elements
76 x 100 x 3 cm
Engraved and spray-painted with the words “STAY PROFESSIONAL” onto found metal shelving, Don’t Be So Emotionalconfronts the expectation to contain emotion and remain composed. In a patriarchal capitalist system that values productivity, control and professionalism, emotional expression is often dismissed as excessive or irrational. The demand to “not be emotional” is particularly gendered, used to discredit women and gender minorities when they express anger, disagreement or intensity. The title and engraved words expose the absurdity of this demand, while the work reclaims emotional expression as a form of resistance.
Photography by Fredirick Vidal