“Middle Daughter” is an exploration into the complexity of identity and mythology of womanhood found within leisure, desire, pleasure and the specificity as a state of being. By acknowledging rules within the landscape of femininity, gender roles and their societal expectations, Archuleta has found multiple approaches to transgressive and transformative definitions of these identities. Her specific approach to this critique uses humor, jokes and satire. The small crusty dog is used as an objectifying self identifying symbol, and a parallel to the sometimes awkward and uncomfortable experiences within girlhood. Archuleta is interested in exploring how the figure is perceived and how she sees herself, a constant battle between self awareness and self sabotage.

The duality of being treated as an object, but also finding worth in your own company creates tension that the figure seeks to find solace within. Uneasiness within the color palette and subject matter is
materially driven, using texture as a tool for attraction. The figures seduce and confront nuances within the vapidness of beauty, vanity, and ego while also using self-consciousness as repulsion. The women in her work wear masks, perform softness, weakness, shallowness, and confidence; all while
cowering with insecurity. The work is a love letter to all middle daughters, finding autonomy in girlhood and vulnerability.

Jo Archuleta