Southern Bells

In Kiki Piper's mixed media painting "Southern Bells," two vibrant red bell peppers take center stage, one sliced open to reveal its intricate seeds and internal structure. Created for the 2025 exhibition "M is for Menopause", this piece celebrates not just the visual allure of these vegetables but also a deeper metaphor for women’s health, vitality, and the multifaceted journey of womanhood, particularly as it intersects with menopause and the transformation that comes with it.

In addition, the bright red bell peppers serve as a joyful homage to the Southern belle—symbols of beauty, strength, and charm. Much like the Southern woman, these peppers embody resilience and vibrancy, thriving in the warmth of the sun and the richness of the earth. The act of cutting one open to expose its seeds speaks to the profound layers of femininity, showcasing both the beauty on the surface and the complexity that lies within. It invites the viewer to appreciate that true vitality is not just found in outward appearances but also in the strength and potential that each of us carries internally.

Connecting the bell pepper’s structure to women’s health, Kiki Piper explores how the anatomy of the pepper mirrors the intimate and intricate nature of the female body. The seeds represent the potential for new life, reminiscent of the various stages each woman experiences throughout her journey—from nurturing roles in youth to self-discovery in later years. As we navigate menopause, this painting serves as a celebration of the transformative power that shifts can bring, honoring the beauty found in all stages of life.

"Southern Bells" invites conversation around vitality and health in the context of aging, feminist identity, and cultural narratives surrounding womanhood. It encourages us to embrace change and recognize the strength that lies within—similar to how a bell pepper, often overlooked, is packed with flavor, nutrients, and history. 

In creating this piece, Kiki Piper strives to communicate the message that women, like these peppers, embody a rich tapestry of resilience, beauty, and complexity, encouraging us to savor the full spectrum of our experiences while celebrating our vibrant health and identities. Each brushstroke, each texture of paper, adds depth to a narrative that transcends the surface, inviting viewers to see the profound connections between our bodies, our health, and the beautiful, evolving stories we write throughout our lives.