The Four Horsemen

Acrylic marker on canvas paper, matboard, 2024

In these illustrative works, the artist explores the legend of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse through a feminist lens. These works provide a commentary on the current unreasonable societal ideals for women by framing these ideals as the apocalypse that these Horsemen foretell. Each Horseman examines a different aspect of how women are held down by society and how women are fighting to escape what is deemed acceptable. The Horseman of Conquest examines how the Biblical story of Eve is used as justification for women’s lower societal status, while the Horseman of War is actively charging into battle against stereotypes and expectations placed on women. The Horseman of Famine examines how societal norms dictate that women must be as small as possible, while the Horseman of Death has finally broken the glass ceiling and is no longer defined by societal pressures. Inspired by the work of Pamela Coleman Smith, these works were framed as illustrated tarot cards reminiscent of early woodcuts. This illustrative style brings the story of these new Horsemen to life, challenging us to examine women’s role in society.