Gojira Samurai (Helmet), 2024
Doll composed of PVC tube, aluminum foil, epoxy clay, elastic, metal springs, bolts, plastic eyes, magnets, spray paint and synthetic wig. Costume composed of fabric, cardboard, aluminum foil, epoxy clay, ribbon, thermo plastic, magnets, snaps, trim, acrylic paint, and toy katana sword.
This doll and costume were inspired by a visit to Kanazawa, Japan, in 2018. I went to a photo studio and had my portrait taken as a samurai. This is a popular tourist activity in Kanazawa, for Japanese and foreigner alike. It was somewhat unusual to be a woman dressed as a man, but the samurai armor was much more elaborate and exciting as an opportunity to play dress-up.