When we try on truly glamorous gowns, we are delighted by the sensuous romantic appeal of soft fabric and sumptuous designs. Having ignored the genre for so long, a degree of self conciousness lingers on our shoulders when we leave the private dressing room, and venture into a public space. Daring to take on such a change in personal style makes the uninitiated feel vulnerable. We are in the spotlight, somewhat exposed.

To compensate for this discomfort, and to offer some virtual protection, I have swathed the canvases in sheer fabrics. The transparent curtains offer a layer of defense from the public eye. However, like the veils of hats in the 1930s, they transmit conflicting messages. Although there is an illusion of distance, there's also a hint of come-hither mystery.

For the pupose of viewing the paintings, the canvases were photographed before adding the fabric. It can easily be removed.

Unexpectedly, one of the paintings became aggresive in nature. The suits took on the appearance of carcasses. A theme was developing, involving body image and the attitudes implied therein. In northern climes, after "fat pasty winters", women would try on THE SUIT with fear and trepidation, even questioning whether they should venture out in public. I actually overheard a woman say that she wasn't going to confirm any holiday plans until she saw how she looked in her swimsuit!

Are these icons? The amount of energy that many women put into the search for an acceptable bathing suit elevates that search to the status of quest. As I thought about the lunacy of this traumatic experience, my suits became bigger and bolder - some too big to fit the paper. They became more lighthearted, completely unapologetic, and simply...out there.