THE LOST VENUS
The Lost Venus is an artwork created to raise awareness about female genital mutilation (FGM) and other forms of violence inflicted upon women and girls around the world. Its central figure is a faceless woman surrounded by surgical instruments, symbolizing both the physical and psychological cruelty that victims endure. In her mirrored reflection are countless women—adults and children—who continue to suffer in silence every day.I am honored that the organizers of the International Summit on Female Genital Mutilations chose The Lost Venus as their event image. This summit, hosted in collaboration with institutions like the Italian Senate, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Università degli Studi di Padova, and Università degli Studi di Palermo, highlights the urgent need for collective action and open dialogue to stop female genital mutilation.
My sincere gratitude goes to Dottoressa Stefania De Fazio, whose commitment and leadership in arranging the Summit have been a constant source of inspiration. She spurred me to create this piece and relentlessly advocates for the worldwide elimination of FGM. I fully support all social, economic, and political efforts to end this cruel practice. It is devastating to imagine the suffering of women and girls who have been—or continue to be—subjected to it. While women in some parts of the globe still fight for limited rights, others face even harsher circumstances, living with no rights at all. Female genital mutilation reflects a broader and more dramatic heritage of female subjugation under patriarchal worldviews.
It is crucial that every human being, no matter their sex at birth or current gender identity, stands together to abolish this form of enslavement once and for all.
For deeper insights, please watch this video discussion with Dottoressa Stefania De Fazio, President of SICPRE and Plastic Surgeon, where she talks about the symbolism of The Lost Venus and the importance of continuing to raise awareness about FGM.
Article on Vanity Fair
University Federico II Naples
Cristina Burns at the Italian Senate
Italian Senate
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