Sheela Na Gig
Words by Fiona Carroll, handkerchief by The Keeper
Sheela na gigs are curious and erotic stone carvings depicting a small, bald-headed, big-eyed old squatting woman pulling her vulva lips apart. These figures are found on Norman and Romanesque churches around the British Isles, Ireland, France and Spain. They are said to be pre-Christian folk goddesses with life-giving powers. Sheela is thought to be slang for ‘old woman’ and ‘gig’ for genitalia. It is no surprise that Victorian clergymen tried to destroy these obscene pagan idols.
This artwork is part of The Wall of Sexual Heroes, a collaborative textile art piece featured in our previous exhibitions at the Horse Hospital (2022) and Bow Arts Lab (2023). All embroidered, printed and appliquėd handkerchiefs celebrate unsung heroes of sexual emancipation, activism and innovation.
The Wall is an organic work. If you would like to contribute, please get in touch with The Keeper.
