THE ALCHEMIST’S CANVAS: A SURREALIST’S ASCENSION TO DIVINE FEMININITY

Awarded first place in the 2021 Sally Boland Essay contest, this is a historical analysis of 20th century surrealist artist, Leonora Carrington. Only by investigating Carrington's philosophical views, can one begin to understand her work. Representing a unique and sacred feminine existence, Carrington uses the home, domestic activities, and an egg-shaped cauldron as common symbols. Her signature motifs are firmly rooted in animals, celtic lore, and alchemy, giving an aura of magical-realism to her art. Carrington uses this magic and the alchemical processes as a metaphor for feminine consciousness.