More Than Maternal: Jenna McKenzie's Exploration of Motherhood

In a world where discussions on motherhood are evolving but systemic challenges remain, Jenna McKenzie’s project More Than Maternal emerges as a bold and necessary intervention. Through a compelling zine and poster series, McKenzie critically examines the deeply ingrained stereotypes and stigmas surrounding motherhood, offering a fresh perspective on a role often framed by rigid societal expectations.

Despite the increasing number of books and discussions shedding light on the complexities of motherhood, McKenzie argues that little has changed in the lived experiences of mothers. She delves into the paradox of self-transformation versus systemic stagnation, shedding light on the persistent struggles faced by women across different circumstances—whether they are trying to conceive, navigating loss, or redefining their identities as mothers.

More Than Maternal is an exploration of the objectification of women and the toxic expectations placed upon them. The project highlights how motherhood is often reduced to a mere duty, undervalued, and stripped of its political significance. McKenzie challenges these outdated notions, advocating for a broader recognition of motherhood as a complex and multifaceted experience that deserves acknowledgment beyond traditional societal constraints.

Jenna McKenzie, a self-proclaimed magazine enthusiast and a passionate creative, brings a distinctive visual language to her work. As a Royal Society of Arts Winner (2022) and Fellow, her approach is deeply influenced by her South African upbringing, which is evident in the diversity and substance of her artistic expression. Her ability to merge aesthetics with meaningful discourse makes More Than Maternal not just an artistic project but a powerful social commentary.

By confronting the stigmas that define motherhood and pushing back against outdated narratives, McKenzie’s More Than Maternal stands as a testament to the resilience and complexity of mothers everywhere. Through her work, she invites audiences to reconsider and reframe the way motherhood is perceived, ultimately striving for a world where it is valued for the profound and transformative experience it truly is.

More Than Maternal: Jenna McKenzie's Exploration of Motherhood

In a world where discussions on motherhood are evolving but systemic challenges remain, Jenna McKenzie’s project More Than Maternal emerges as a bold and necessary intervention. Through a compelling zine and poster series, McKenzie critically examines the deeply ingrained stereotypes and stigmas surrounding motherhood, offering a fresh perspective on a role often framed by rigid societal expectations.

Despite the increasing number of books and discussions shedding light on the complexities of motherhood, McKenzie argues that little has changed in the lived experiences of mothers. She delves into the paradox of self-transformation versus systemic stagnation, shedding light on the persistent struggles faced by women across different circumstances—whether they are trying to conceive, navigating loss, or redefining their identities as mothers.

More Than Maternal is an exploration of the objectification of women and the toxic expectations placed upon them. The project highlights how motherhood is often reduced to a mere duty, undervalued, and stripped of its political significance. McKenzie challenges these outdated notions, advocating for a broader recognition of motherhood as a complex and multifaceted experience that deserves acknowledgment beyond traditional societal constraints.

Jenna McKenzie, a self-proclaimed magazine enthusiast and a passionate creative, brings a distinctive visual language to her work. As a Royal Society of Arts Winner (2022) and Fellow, her approach is deeply influenced by her South African upbringing, which is evident in the diversity and substance of her artistic expression. Her ability to merge aesthetics with meaningful discourse makes More Than Maternal not just an artistic project but a powerful social commentary.

By confronting the stigmas that define motherhood and pushing back against outdated narratives, McKenzie’s More Than Maternal stands as a testament to the resilience and complexity of mothers everywhere. Through her work, she invites audiences to reconsider and reframe the way motherhood is perceived, ultimately striving for a world where it is valued for the profound and transformative experience it truly is.