Veronica Cay
eavesdropping on the domestic | 2024 | mixed media | 152 x 102cm
Sunshine Coast Art National Prize 2024 - Finalist
![](https://assets-au-scc.kc-usercontent.com:443/330b87ea-148b-3ecf-9857-698f2086fe8d/098453b2-2938-450c-be52-16e5e5fb4d89/SCNAP24%20cay%201000.webp?w=1000&fm=webp)
[Image courtesy of the artist. Photo by Christine Hall.]
Artist Statement
This work, eavesdropping on the domestic, explores the roles and relationships of courtesans throughout history. Sometimes held in high regard - often the most gifted, highly educated artisans and performers; entertaining and engaging everyone around them. Other times falling into disrepute with the term being used as a euphemism for a prostitute. Many courtesans had legal contracts with their partners and long-lasting relationships that provided security and independence into old age similar to a marriage contract, hence eavesdropping on the domestic is a contemporary view parodying the historical.