Venus De Milo Torsos with Two Shells, 2023, presents a continuation of the pond scene, albeit in an unframed manner that serves as a background rather than a central focus,...
Venus De Milo Torsos with Two Shells, 2023, presents a continuation of the pond scene, albeit in an unframed manner that serves as a background rather than a central focus, reminiscent of a theatrical set design.
The composition features two Venus De Milo toros in blue and purple hues, framing the image. Additionally, a narrow table adorned with shells and a variegated Calathea Trio star houseplant completes the visual arrangement. Notably, the painting includes three shells, contrary to the title’s suggestion of two. The significance lies in the two larger shells, resembling empty shells akin to the fragmented female statues. Specifically, the Helmet Conch shell and the turtle shell are prominently featured, both devoid of contents, evoking a sexual innuendo, mirroring the fragmented statues. Historically, female classical busts often accentuated a carved six-pack on the abdomen, which may have been originally derived from a male model rather than a female one.
In Valdez's intentional departure, she softened the belly region to convey a sense of comfort and sexuality, while retaining the firmness of the stone breasts as a reminder of patriarchal desires that permeates her personal ideals of feminine beauty standards.
