In this series, whimsical feminine figures take on anthropomorphic forms as they perform domestic tasks. Inspired by Francisco Goya’s series, Los Caprichos, Osorio embraces satirical duality by expressing the traditional duties of a woman and infusing it with the expected sensuality of the feminine. Reality and fantasy contrast throughout the entirety of the series, alluding viewers to question the projected gender roles within society. The figures maintain a delicate composure although the tasks they perform appear eerie upon further inspection.
Osorio employs a unique technique of hand embroidery to accompany her lithographs– a favored medium of hers at the time. The metallic embroidery plays into the overarching feminine theme of the series, with the artist enlisting its usage to pay homage to the craft of the women who came before her. By stitching on paper instead of fabric, Osorio emphasizes the fragility of both the medium and the domestic labor depicted by the fantastical women. The series calls viewers to pull from their own self-consciousness when attempting to interpret the conflicting feelings brought upon by closer inspection.
Description written by Cori Schaffer, 2025.