“Trappings: Stories of Women Power and Clothing,” created by Two Girls Working, comes to Albuquerque, New Mexico June 13th-August 16th. This unique collection of art creates conversations about the meaning and expression of power.
Two Girls Working, a collaboration between Tiffany Ludwig and Renee Piechocki, examines the way we identify ourselves and others that describe the range and diversity of background, identity and attitude among women. To do this, they begin by asking women to respond to the question: what do you wear that makes you feel powerful? Since they started the project in 2002, the artists have interviewed more than 600 women in 15 states. This year, before coming to Albuquerque, the exhibit has also been displayed in New York, Wyoming and Missouri. The national exhibition tour is in conjunction with the release of their book of the same title.
“I chose to bring Trappings to 516 ARTS to involve Albuquerque in a national dialogue. Our mission at 516 is to help connect Albuquerque with larger cultural trends and discussions — regionally, nationally and occasionally internationally,” said Suzanne Sbarge, Executive Director of 516 ARTS. “I think our local involvement lends important voices to this dialogue — including many Native American and Hispanic women.”
Trappings: Albuquerque will include a two-floor installation at 516 ARTS in downtown Albuquerque as well as an accompanying public art project featuring Trappings bus panels on the downtown D-Ride buses and banners on light posts and buildings. Bus passengers can view images and hear participant interviews by dialing a number from their cell phones.
In addition to the gallery exhibit and public art displays, events will further develop the theme including a panel discussion on July 14 and the Downtown Artscrawl on August 15th.
“By incorporating interviews from local women of all ages and cultures, this exhibition provides a multi-faceted conversation about power,” said Joni Thompson, Chief Operating Officer of the Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Exhibitions such as the national tour of ‘Trappings’ contribute to Albuquerque consistently being named as one of the country’s top arts destinations.”
Visit http://www.516arts.org/ and http://www.twogirlsworking.com/ for information on Trappings. For details on more Albuquerque events, go to http://www.itsatrip.org/.
Trappings: Albuquerque is made possible by New Mexico Humanities Council, the City of Albuquerque, McCune Foundation, Clear Channel Outdoor and many general sponsors.
