The notion of the “monstrous feminine”, as coined by feminist theorist Barbara Creed in her book The Monstrous-Feminine : Film, Feminism, Psychoanalysis, explores the importance of gender in the construct of woman’s monstrosity. Can Creed’s notion of the monstrous feminine construct still be used to inform our understanding of women in current culture? Modern cultural phenomena such as the obsession with physical appearance and its relation to the idealized view of women, as well as the notion of IVF and the creation of life outside the body; all challenge the traditional roles women play.

Monstrous Feminine critically examines the value society places on vanity, consumerism and the pursuit of perfection and eternal youth. Historically women's sexuality has often been portrayed as something scary, uncomfortable and threatening. There is enormous cultural fear surrounding the idea of ageing and as such there is an entire generation of women whose identities are being shaped by this. This work holds a mirror to the rituals and processes women engage with in response to these paradigms.