Gavin Devereaux: capstone

Abstract

The artist's statement: Western religion and, specifically, Catholicism, are intrinsically linked to the impression and oppression of queer people. Altering the religious ideals I was raised with in the Catholic Church, I reframe them through my lens of queerness and repurpose what I was taught, rather than be controlled by it. Through engaging with my sexuality, I balance the masculinity that was expected of me with the femininity I've connected to. My sculptural practice examines religion in a figurative and historically based manner, contrasted with my work in printmaking, which is fluid, layered, and abstract, representative of my current journey of spiritual belief. It is integral in my practices to collaborate and engage with other queer artists and make a new community out of the one that I lost. In the process of making, I challenge what I was taught in the church, develop new spiritual beliefs, and foster a deeper sense of pride in not just myself, but my newfound community.