Insong, Eliakim III BSBIO CIT-U

An Essay on Art Interpretation/Analysis of Dea, 1996 by Agnes Arellano

Note: No details are added to the two works of art shown below. The idea is to extract your own
understanding, not a rephrased echo of Google.

I genuinely believe that powerful art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable,
this is a quote from Cesar Cruz. In this sculpture, we get to see the evident play in the concept
of juxtaposition by the sculptor. I believe we are to live in the duality of comfort and discomfort,
where the two polarities co-exist in the right balance, because this in some ways drives home
the ability for art to meet us where we are. There are so many layers to this artwork besides
being soft, effeminate, and spiritual, yet it is also grotesque with a tint of grim aura. From a
feminist’s perspective, I believe this evokes a message about the societal burdens of
womanhood. For context, it is observed that it seems like the woman in the sculpture has her
wings clipped and her hands bound. This could imply that when a woman is bound by marriage
or motherhood, she isn’t free to explore and reach her fullest potential as compared to her male
counterparts. Also, the presence of multiple breasts could possibly imply that not only she but
plenty of women carry this burden. This could also be generational trauma passed on—the
trauma of being trapped and not being able to have a fully realized self.

Personally, I couldn’t experience it firsthand because I am not taking up the role of womanhood
myself. But I could definitely relate to the feeling of leaving a part of yourself somewhere when
taking up a new role in life, whether it may be my progression to a new career path or taking
part in high-risk life decisions that require significant sacrifices. I could see and reflect on myself
in this sculpture. Having a life not fully realized and being strapped by the endless expectations
held by cultural norms, which I myself am unsure of reaching. The feeling of being unsure and
at the same time being clouded with doubt. Is it because I am living a life that society has
pressured me into? On the other hand, this significant role change is also the foundation for
Insong, Eliakim III BSBIO CIT-U

building the communities and societies that we have today. Ultimately, the impact of marriage
and motherhood on a woman will depend on a wide range of factors, including her personal
relationships, financial stability, career goals, and most importantly, individual aspirations. It is
important for women to have support and resources to help them navigate these changes and
feel empowered in their roles as wives and mothers.