Artemis 

Editor: We're looking at "Artemis" by Fernanda Suarez, done in acrylic. It's a beautiful, romantic piece, and I’m immediately drawn to the way it evokes both power and vulnerability. What do you see in this work? Curator: This painting resonates with contemporary reinterpretations of classical mythology through a feminist lens. Suarez offers us an Artemis who is both powerful huntress and a figure deeply connected to the natural world. The animals surrounding her aren’t just aesthetic elements; they represent a kinship and shared agency. Do you notice how the crescent moon symbol is repeated, not only on her headpiece, but also as a tattoo? Editor: I did notice! Is that meant to emphasize the connection to the moon goddess? Curator: Precisely. And beyond the superficial, consider what it means to reclaim and re-present figures like Artemis, moving her away from traditional, often patriarchal interpretations. Instead, we see an individual who embodies self-reliance, female strength, and a non-hierarchical relationship with nature. This aligns with ecofeminist thought, critiquing the dominance of both women and the environment. How might we understand the presence of both a drawn arrow, and the lack of clear target? Editor: Hmm, maybe that’s a commentary on how traditional portrayals of women center on aiming for a particular societal ‘target’, which this image rejects? Curator: That’s a very insightful point. It prompts us to think critically about the narratives we inherit and the potential for reimagining them in more equitable ways. Ultimately, it’s about recognizing the power of art to challenge and reshape cultural norms. Editor: It really reframes Artemis from just a myth to a figure of modern strength. I never thought about the deeper cultural meaning of fantasy art. Curator: It’s about unearthing those hidden dialogues between past and present. Thanks for prompting me to revisit this powerful figure.