“Birthday Suit” (December 2023)

What is gender?

Inspired by mahō shōjo anime transformations, “Birthday Suit” aims to explore the relationship between gender and appearance — despite being a social construct, what implications does physical form have on what gender means to us?

Based on personal trans experiences, “Birthday Suit” aims to express the magical nature of gender that exceeds beyond physical forms, as often depicted in the mahō shōjo genre. By using a combination of sparkling ribbons and bright colors, “gender” is conveyed as something less physical, but more so emotional, revealing one’s personal identity is an expression of joy.

Created for and featured in December 2023 solo exhibition “Slice of Life”

4’x6’, acrylic and ribbon on custom built canvas