gossip - godsibb
(Her Trusted Friend)
Subverting the misogynistic connotations of the word “gossip” by reclaiming its original meaning through the domestic craft of coiling.
Before negative and misogynistic connotations were imposed upon it, "gossip," originating from the Old English word "Godsibb" and initially referring to a godparent, encompassed meanings such as companions during childbirth, trusted confidants, and close female friends, conveying strong emotional bonds and social ties among women in premodern English society.
Gossip - Godsibb
(Her Trusted Friend)
2024
39cm X 43cm X 41cm
wool yarn, galvanised wire
The making of this coiled vessel seeks to create an organic form that represents the nourishment and protection of a woman's "gossip circle," carrying forward the original meanings and subverting the degradation of female voices and gatherings enforced by patriarchy.
By coiling wire with wool yarn, the malleable wire encapsulates the flexibility and resilience of feminine strength, while the wool yarn signifies the collective warmth from countless caring hands of women.
The coiling process was both intuitive and intentional, aiming to create a symbolic structure resembling a group of women holding a well together, from which a cosmic egg is born.
The process began with making four inner circular forms representing female circles, then creating the well beneath, followed by the outer layer symbolising radiant light and protection, and finally, the cosmic egg inside the well.