Fiona Haynes - To Be Served

To Be Served
Silver and Clay
21cm x 21cm x 12cm
Ref. 55232

To Be Served is a sculptural work featuring a solitary female figure poised on a vintage silver serving platter. By placing the figure on an object traditionally associated with presentation, hospitality, and service, the artwork invites reflection on themes of identity, expectation, and the roles individuals occupy within society.

The polished silver platter acts as both a pedestal and a stage, elevating the figure while prompting questions about visibility, value, and how people are perceived by others. The title, To Be Served, carries a deliberate ambiguity, referencing both the functional purpose of the platter and the social expectations often placed upon women to serve, nurture, or perform prescribed roles.

Through the reuse of a treasured domestic object, the artwork transforms the familiar into something thought-provoking and unexpected. The contrast between the elegant silverware and the human form creates a narrative that balances vulnerability with strength, inviting viewers to consider notions of presentation, agency, and self-worth. The work celebrates the power of reimagining everyday objects, revealing new stories and meanings hidden within them.