The Feminist History and Artistic Appeal of Boobie Vases

The Empowering History of Boobie Vases

For centuries, the female form has been both revered and regulated in artistic expression. However, the use of breasts and cleavage in pottery and sculpture has been a means of feminine empowerment for artists throughout history. The boobie vase is one such example that continues this tradition with a modern, feminist twist.

The Origins of the Boobie Vase

Vases and jugs shaped like the female form have existed since ancient times. The amphora, a type of Greek vase with two handles, was often sculpted with breasts or exaggerated hips and thighs. Some historians believe this symbolized fertility and abundance. However, these depictions were still created by male artists for male patrons.

It wasn't until the 20th century that female artists began embracing the breast in their art as a symbol of liberation. Suffragettes like Ida Properzia de’ Rossi became some of the first to cast realistic busts and figures in bronze and marble. Following World War II, ceramicists like Eva Zeisel in the U.S. and St Ives artists like Barbara Hepworth in the UK continued this tradition.

The Boobie Vase Movement

By the 1960s and 70s, the boobie vase exploded in popularity during the feminist art movement. Artists like Anne Marie Levisse began crafting cheeky pottery with round breasts and curvy silhouettes. The vase creations rejected the male gaze and celebrated the beauty of women's bodies. Levisse described her pieces as “joyously vulgar.”

Other feminist artists added political statements to their boobie vases. In 1972, Judy Chicago founded the first feminist art program and created iconic works like "The Dinner Party" to highlight forgotten women in history. Chicago's students experimented with ceramics using breasts and vulvas to express women's rage and empowerment.

Contemporary Boobie Vases

Today, the boobie vase continues to thrive through independent artists on Etsy and Instagram. While some view these pieces as kitschy or obscene, many feminist artists see them as body-positive symbols of self-love and feminine power.

Contemporary boobie vases come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Some FEATURES collaged decoupage with feminist imagery. Others have nipples cast in ceramic or are finished with glitter and pastels. The vase form allows complete creative freedom.

In addition, modern artists are expanding the concept of the boobie vase to be more inclusive. Ceramicists like Melisa Cadell create torsos of various shapes, sizes and skin tones to embrace the diversity of women's bodies. Glazing techniques add everything from stretch marks to cellulite.

Tips for Making Your Own Boobie Vase

Want to join the tradition of boobie vases? Here are some tips to get started:

• Choose a basic vase form as your base - cylinder, globe, pitcher, etc.
• Sculpt clay breasts and torso to attach to vase.
• Focus on unique textures, glazes, and nipple detail.
• Fire and finish the surface design with paint or mixed media.
• Consider feminine imagery, text, and political elements.
• Be body positive and empowering in your approach.

The boobie vase offers a fun way to explore feminist art, ceramics, and the beauty of women's bodies. Approach your vase as a statement of self-love and liberation.

Conclusion

For centuries, pottery shaped like womens' bodies has moved from ancient idol to feminist emblem. The boobie vase continues this tradition, promoting body positivity and female empowerment with every unique design. With some clay, glaze, and creativity, anyone can craft their own boobie vase as an ode to feminine beauty, strength, and expression.

FAQs

Why are they called boobie vases?

These vases are named for their defining breast-shaped features. The word "boobie" is a slang term used to refer to a woman's breasts in an irreverent yet body-positive way.

Are boobie vases considered obscene?

While some may see these feminist art pieces as vulgar or inappropriate, most supporters view them as joyful expressions of women's bodies and sexuality. They are designed to empower rather than objectify.

What makes a boobie vase feminist art?

Boobie vases arose from the feminist art movement as a way for women to celebrate their bodies on their own terms. The vases reject the male gaze and sexist regulation of female nudity in art history.

Do boobie vases come in diverse designs?

Yes! Contemporary boobie vases feature diverse breast shapes, sizes, colors and textures to reflect the beautiful diversity of real women's bodies.

How can I get started making my own?

Choose a vase form, sculpt clay breasts, focus on unique decorative details like glazes and textures, and approach your design with feminist creativity and body positivity.