It’s not for you, heel edition

A stiletto heel... the accessory that gives physical and mental height, a powerful walk, and a more commanding presence. Created by two men, it offers confidence, but also causes women a great deal of pain, keeping them in a temporary state of false power. This artwork's composition shows the model pushing her heel into her thigh while maintaining a stiletto power pose, thereby provoking pain.

This oil paint-focused mixed-media artwork is part of the series It’s Not For You, which explores themes of the female form as well as the "expectations and power" that come from it. Specifically, attributes, conformities, and accessories that make women feel powerful and confident, but from the male gaze, are seen as sexualized and worn/ acted upon for their pleasure.

My first step was to sketch out the composition for this artwork, which is from my photography. I then left room for a border, which at the final step will be wrapped in a glossy black fabric to mimic the heels' shiny effect.

(October 13th, 2025)

In my first update, the model is wearing black stockings. After I add more detail to the skin, I will create the texture of the tights.

(October 13th, 2025)