I just posted a piece about Annie Sprinkle, Phd. A woman who's views I often disagree with but some I embrace. I am a feminist against pornography and she is a feminist that is in favor of it. She started her career with stripping, pornography and prostitution. She is now a sex educator and performance artist.
I have just learned that Sprinkle had a bout with breast cancer in 2005 and I am impressed with the way in which she attempted to handle it. It seems that she had a lot of support and love around her. She used her illness as a catalyst which promoted art, love and well being.
When Sprinkle began losing her hair during the process of chemotherapy she decided to shave her head. Her wife shaved her head as well and the photos from the piece are part of a project they call Hairotica. I do not view this piece as sexual although her goal might have been to make it so. I see this as a beautiful moment between two people who love and support each other. She has turned an intense and for some scary and sad time into art. To view more photos from her website go here.
Sprinkle continued to use her illness as an extension of her Love Art project. In her words she says, "what better way to explore the themes of security and survival than to try and stay alive." Sprinkle posted photos from her biopsy.
DISCLAIMER: THE PHOTOS YOU ARE ABOUT TO SEE ARE GRAPHIC IN NATURE. IF YOU GET QUEASY EASILY I SUGGEST YOU DO NOT LOOK
According to Sprinkle's website, her nipple and tumor turned blue from the dye the surgeon injected into her lymph nodes. Sprinkle's cancer was found to be stage one which means it was caught early.
Sprinkle later posted these photos in a gallery with medical bandages outlining the frames. To see more photos go here.
This next piece is what Sprinkle calls her Chemo Fashion Show. It seems that when Sprinkle went to her chemo infusions she decided to make the process quite fashionable and flirty. She said that her efforts actually helped other women receiving chemo feel lighthearted and entertained. At a later date the photos were put together into a slide show performance in which Sprinkle presented as if she were an emcee at a fashion show. Here are some of her photos and captions that go with it. To see more photos click here.
Never clash with your chemo—coordinate red on red—and drip with rhinestones
Chemo cocktails anyone?
Notice how the acupuncture needles draw attention to the richness of the fabrics and the sari’s details
When you’re feeling scalped and your cells are under attack, look sassy, make art, and survive
Breast cancer is no doubt a scary prospect. As a woman it is something I certainly fear. I am glad that Sprinkle was able to bring humor and wit to her recovery process and am happy to know that she is doing well.
I applaud and thank Sprinkle for sharing her experience and turning it into art. What a method of healing and hope ay?
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