Jean Grey Phoenix 

This is Stanley Artgerm Lau’s ‘Jean Grey Phoenix’, made sometime in the 20th century. The Phoenix is an interesting figure, as her story arc taps into the common trope of the powerful woman struggling with control. We see it in religion, mythology, and literature. What happens when a woman has too much power? What does she do with it? How does she wield it? Here we see a strong figure who is taking up space. But she is also on fire. What does it mean to be a woman ablaze? It reminds me of those women who fought for civil rights and blazed trails in society, politics, and the arts. They left an indelible mark on this world. Is the Phoenix a symbol of feminine rage, or perhaps a symbol of the transformative potential of women? What do you think?