Often autobiographical, my work investigates the role of the woman’s body as a sanctuary, a vessel, and a portal through which energies pass and the I becomes absent. My practice initially spoke to my own voice and experiences; however, it has now taken a turn in which it seeks to directly engage with other women and their experiences. It addresses issues related to the maternal body and function which are often considered too taboo to speak of, in juxtaposition to the emotional, psychological relations one may have to the I and the Other through presence and absence. Often, the Other prevails and creates a structure and void of neurotic divergence. Thus the female body, as a spiritual enterprise of the maternal structure, is a regulator of relationships with the Other. My works become manifestations of these emotional celebrations and conflicts.

The complete overview of Katrina Coombs’ featured work can be found in the Kingston Biennial 2022: Pressure Catalogue, which is available for sale in the NGJ Gift Shop.