Drudge: An Arts-Based Research Approach to Issues on Motherhood, Work, and Social Norms

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2021

Authors

Hughes, Karista

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Abstract

Societies stratify their members by social location, which in turn is informed by their material production. Certain types of work, such as domestic duties and childcare are often undervalued. In this exhibition, I portray my series, Drudge, next to the work of other artists who are mothers and the influence of ideal worker norms on working mothers is materialized. The paintings’ are influenced by Kimberle Crenshaw’s theory of intersectionality, which delineates the hierarchies and social forces that create work/life inequalities. Social attitudes toward working mothers create a psychological and physical vulnerability that is frequently overlooked in the workplace. I symbolize the psychological and physical effects of unrecognized work/life oppression by placing my mixed-media paintings alongside other artists' work who are also mothers. In my work, Drudge, the plight and entrenchment of working mothers based on intersectionality and social norms are conveyed and I aspire to provoke empathy and social change.

Description

Creative Arts and Research Symposium
Creative Arts and Research Symposium

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