Aušrinė, Baltic Pagan Deity of Medicine, Health and Beauty

Aušrinė, Baltic Pagan Deity of Medicine, Health and Beauty is from a body of work; 'The Defective Goddesses'. Which are series of vessels that establishes a profound connection to the earth and life itself, embodying simplicity through reflective autobiographical creation. These vessels serve as a form of quiet activism, initiating dialogue about the often taboo topic of hidden illnesses. Stemming from my own struggles with hidden illnesses, this body of work advocates for increased visibility and enhanced medical research, especially when looking at women's bodies. Which intertwines with research into health over time, incorporating narratives from historical myths and legends of deities and goddesses by reflecting on how societal perceptions of secrecy have been constructed. Prompting reflection on who holds the power to affect change. In an era marked by a chronically underfunded healthcare system that is plagued with gender biases, this work poses fundamental questions about the origin of these disparities and how to achieve health care equality and equity.