It's All Right to Stare

Local artist Corey Godfrey is taking the erotic gaze back for the ladies. She uses "soft materials generally attributed to women" to mimic (and possibly mock) the lurid gazes created by visuals in erotic publications like mens' magazines. Having been a crafter since her early childhood, Godfrey's goal is to...

By Merritt Martin

January 28, 2010

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Local artist Corey Godfrey is taking the erotic gaze back for the ladies. She uses "soft materials generally attributed to women" to mimic (and possibly mock) the lurid gazes created by visuals in erotic publications like mens' magazines. Having been a crafter since her early childhood, Godfrey's goal is to allow women power through erotica--a genre that is largely male dominated in creation--using "female-based crafts" techniques that have long since given women power in the marketplace. So, soft materials and the vagina-having get a whole new lease on sexual and sensual power. Is it artistic feminism? Possibly, as Godfrey claims, " In using these materials, I am simultaneously reflecting the strength of crafts for the history of women and engaging in an erotic physical process of creation." That being said, don't be ashamed if you think Godfrey's work is easy on the eyes. Soft at Heart is on display in the gallery of the Magnolia Theatre in the West Village through April 7. An opening reception takes place from 8 to 10 p.m. Thursday. Admission is free and art is available for purchase. Visit magnoliagallerydallas.com
Feb. 25-April 7, 2010

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Merritt Martin has written for the Dallas Observer for over two decades. She has also contributed to Eater, DMN and USA Today. In addition to arts and culture writing, she spends entirely too much time extolling the virtues of pears, black clothing, and her cat Kenneth.

Contact: Merritt Martin

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