Amazons among us: Reflections on creating the heroines we need now

J Lesbian Stud. 2024;28(2):343-361. doi: 10.1080/10894160.2024.2303903. Epub 2024 Feb 29.

Abstract

This article describes my recent carved wood sculptures of warrior women as a response to and reimagination of historical and mythological accounts of Amazons. I emphasize aspects of queerness and gender non-conformity in the figurative sculptures through iconographical details. This body of work is grounded in readings of classical mythology and popular culture, as well as reference to historical Amazons and women warriors in African and Indian cultures.

Keywords: Amazons; gender stereotypes; sculpture; women warriors; women’s sexuality.

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Gender Identity
  • Homosexuality, Female*
  • Humans
  • Mythology
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities*