Skyler Bradford
she/they
Philadelphia, PA, USA
Skyler Bradford is a conceptual craft artist residing in Philadelphia. She graduated from The University of the Arts where she studied metalsmithing and woodworking. To inquire about her work please contact skylerbradfordstudio@gmail.com.
“I utilize traditional metalsmithing techniques to alter the function of everyday objects to elicit a unique response from the viewer and impart a new meaning. I am interested in subjects typically censored but I subtly infuse humor into my work to lighten the conversation. In this body of work, I am exploring what it means to be a woman seeking consent and respect in her sexual journey, specifically with cisgender men. I altered the form of a condom to make a wax impression and cast it in silver. Consequently, the viewer is required to look a few times before realizing the original object.”
What does being queer mean to you in relation to your material choices? Is it something you consider?
“As a genderfluid woman, I view working with metal as an exploration of identity. This realm of craft is often occupied by cisgender men and my decision to become a metalsmith that uses tools and torches to create art has not only empowered me but has tested the gender norms that have been placed on me since birth. I do not often connect my material choices to my queer identity because I believe that to be a small facet of who I am. I am a person first and how I identify with my sexuality or gender is secondary. I am proud to be part of the queer community, however, I hope that society sees my humanity first."
"Condom Conundrum", Sterling silver, steel, 1.5" x 1.5" x .5", 2023Is the work queer because the maker is queer, or is it queer because the subject matter is queer?
“This work is queer because both me and the subject matter are. This piece was made to discuss experiences I faced with issues of consent during sexual encounters relating to protection. The coercion by cisgender men to forgo a condom not only compromised my safety and comfort but eventually led to me questioning my sexuality. Consequently, I found it important to seek people of other genders to engage with."
