Gynecological Instruments

My series of Gynecological Instruments extends and problematizes the modernist archival work of Karl Blossfeldt. By photographing vintage and contemporary gynecological instruments, I aim to make visible objects that are typically hidden from view—tools that are present during intimate and vulnerable moments yet remain unseen, their impact softened by phrases like, "this will be a little cold" or "you might feel a pinch."

The sterile, clinical presentation of these instruments mirrors their functionality, yet their form carries an unsettling weight when removed from the medical context and placed into plain sight. These photographs challenge viewers to confront the tools of a history and practice that have been central to the control and study of bodies. By isolating these objects and presenting them as an archive, I invite reflection on their design, use, and the narratives they embody. 

In highlighting the instruments' material presence, this work underscores the importance of visibility in understanding the dynamics of power, consent, and care that unfold in medical settings. The tools themselves become artifacts of a system that has historically prioritized observation and control over the lived experiences of patients. By making these objects visible, this series seeks to illuminate the often-overlooked physical and symbolic aspects of gynecological care, prompting viewers to reconsider the role of these instruments in shaping our collective understanding of bodily autonomy.