Suiting Up

The "Suiting Up" series by Ségal offers a deep exploration of symbolism within high-fashion garments and gender dynamics. Through intricate stone tapestries, Ségal reflects on patriarchal and matriarchal influences: her father's leather flight jacket represents adventure and protection, while her mother's 1960s Pucci shirt reveals the complexities of gender roles. The inclusion of Mets jerseys and a man's tuxedo further expands on these themes.

Notably, the series contrasts women's clothing, which intimately represents a body within the sculpture, with the nuanced hollowed representation of men's fashion. This stark difference likely alludes to the absence of Ségal's father, who passed away during her childhood. It underscores emotional loss and critiques men's passive power in society. In contrast, her mother's designer garments symbolize the fleeting nature of memory.

Ségal's evolution in stone carving, emphasizing form over pattern, draws inspiration from Renaissance and Byzantine architecture. The concept of clothing as armor illustrates how fashion can serve as a protective shield, telling stories of resilience and the intricate dynamics of family relationships.