Kerry Lemon British

Kerry Lemon's work, particularly through her alter-ego MRS ROE, explores themes of femininity, autonomy, and the societal implications surrounding female sexuality and reproduction. Through her art, Lemon critiques patriarchal structures and reclaims indigenous plant knowledge, envisioning a future that embraces resilience and interconnectedness with the natural world. Her ongoing MRS ROE project serves as a platform to address historical and cultural narratives, inviting audiences to engage with challenging themes related to women's rights and environmental awareness.

Historically, Tansy plants have been revered for their medicinal properties, particularly in the realm of women's health, evoking notions of care, healing, and the nurturing role of women. The robust nature of Tansy plants symbolizes strength and endurance, contrasting with the delicate sweetness of icing sugar. This juxtaposition underscores the complex balance between the outward gentleness associated with femininity and the inner strength required to uphold it. The use of white icing sugar adds further depth, representing both the sweetness traditionally linked to femininity and the societal pressures to suppress desires. Painting on the body serves as a powerful act of personal and cultural expression, transforming the skin into a canvas where layers of meaning are meticulously applied. This act of inscription becomes particularly poignant when viewed in the context of Ruup & Form's exhibition "Porcelain Dreams," where the smooth, white surface of icing sugar evokes the delicate beauty of porcelain. This parallel between sugar and porcelain highlights the constructed ideals of femininity, often associated with purity and social status. Through Lemon's performance, the act of painting Tansy plants with sugary paste serves as a metaphor for the intricate and sometimes fragile beauty imposed by societal standards. It challenges viewers to reflect on the transient nature of beauty and the enduring strength required to navigate societal norms. Join us for this thought-provoking experience during our exhibition and delve into the profound exploration of femininity and resilience.