by Riley Phillips

babydoll. is a performance piece engaging with female sexuality and wearable art. Inspired by the uncomfortable experience of sexual harassment and catcalling, specifically during the pandemic when feeling covered has been more emphasized than ever, I seek to recognize and reclaim the lustful eye that is cast onto the female form. 

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The performance piece consists of a wearable, “babydoll”-style dress constructed from disposable masks and layered with a nude female photograph (Lisa on Silk, 1940) by Horst P. Horst. The mask material recalls the timely uniqueness of this sensation-- emphasizing the fact that victims of sexual harassment are clothed even up to their faces through this pandemic, yet still reduced to a state of imagined nakedness. The juxtaposition of the clothed versus the unclothed allows for a reclaiming of the perception of the body in a reversed role of power and consent. As I accept the attention in the unconventional garment and accessory, I consent to the audience’s gaze and discussion-- contrary to the nonconsensual experience of sexual harassment. In consenting to the spotlight and framing my perception, I am propelled by the reversal of power with women defining and sharing their bodies on their own volition.

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While wearing this dress weekly both on-campus and off-campus during my daily routine, I make note of audience responses and reactions, and in the days I am not wearing the garment, I embroider these responses or symbols of them onto the dress. The dress acts as a wearable piece of art and tool for reclaiming power of personal female perception, in addition to a document of the audience responses. As time progresses, so does the garment, my comfort and confidence in the performance space, and the reactions to the piece and its feminine imagery.

— Riley Phillips, 2020

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babydoll. performance walks will occur weekly on Fridays on the WFU Campus from 10/23 through 11/20.

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For more information, visit rileyphillipsart.com/babydoll.

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Affiliated with the Wake Forest University Public Art Initiative.

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With support from and in dialogue with the WFU Women’s Center.

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The WFU Safe Office is a 24/7 confidential resource for support and assistance related to: sexual harassment, sexual assault, relationship violence, and/or stalking. Safe Office Helpline: 336.758.5285