The Laugh of the Medusa

The Trinacria is a symbol associated with the island of Sicilia, Italy. It features the head of Medusa, flanked by wings, and surrounded by three legs in a triangular shape. Medusa is also a talisman of protection and defense. “The Laugh of the Medusa” an essay by French feminist Helene Cixous, argues that women must reclaim their power, sexuality, and creativity to challenge the dominant patriarchal structures. Cixous uses the figure of the Medusa as a metaphor for women’s power. These fifteen paintings by Patti Randazzo Beckett unveil the power within all women, the maiden, mother, and crone. Portraits of family and friends are reinterpreted as the Trinacria and Medusa. There is no one type or commonality but a representation of diversity.

Following 15 panels are works in progress for a group show, The World Tree. They are mix media on 18 X 18 inch canvases.