Inspired by Dada, Theater of the Absurd, Situationist Theory and contemporary performance art, Copeland’s performance video work humorously questions cultural norms. Her alter ego—The Victorian Woman always performs in full costume engaging in what is typically thought of as “masculine culture or masculine activities”. She does not train for these performances. She will allow no more than a 15-minute tutorial prior to engagement and filming. Copeland’s videos embrace spectacle and absurdity as a strategy to examine gender roles and as a playful way to deconstruct cultural and gender stereotypes.
In the 8th Victorian Woman episode, Copeland’s alter-ego travels to Nueces County to compete in the 43rd Annual World Championship Rattlesnake Races.
