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Waxing Masculinity, 2024

Plaster, Cement, Polyurethane Foam, Plastic Mannequins, Soy Wax, and Paint on Wooden Table

22.5 x 43 inches

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Waxing Masculinity explores themes of femininity, masculinity, and the trans experience, particularly the journey of female-to-male trans men. The sculpture begins as a hypermasculine male torso made of polyurethane foam, plaster and cement, representing society's idealized views of what a man "should" look like. This idealized view ties into body dysmorphia and the struggle to sculpt ourselves into the "perfect" form we imagine.

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The male form is entirely encased in wax molded as a female torso. As the wax melts away, it reveals the male form beneath, symbolizing transition and transformation. This process bypasses the slow, difficult journey of HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) and societal judgment, showing the "final form" instantly, like a dream of instant self-realization. The melted wax creates a new and unpredictable sculpture, reflecting the individuality of each person’s transition and how unique every journey is.

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There is a timelapse video that documents the melting process, capturing the moment of transformation. This mirrors my own journey as a queer, genderfluid person who came out over a decade ago and continues to navigate questions of identity and presentation.

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The title, Waxing Masculinity, plays on the dual meanings of "waxing"—both the material used and the growth or evolution of masculinity. This piece holds deep personal meaning for me, as it reflects my own path and the hands-on process of shaping who I am, just as I shaped this sculpture. By challenging myself with unfamiliar materials and techniques, I hoped to create something meaningful that captures both the struggle and beauty of becoming.