The Circe Effect: Women’s Creative Power Reclaims the Narrative opened in the Tremaine Gallery on November 14. Curated by Ms. Sarah Anderson Lock P’24, former arts administrator at the school, and coordinated by Mr. Greg Lock P’24, director of the photography, film, and related media program, the show is part of this year’s celebration of education.
Ms. Lock conceived of the exhibit after reading the book Circe by Madeline Miller. She said, “Miller empowers Circe to tell her story on her own terms, transcending—indeed reclaiming— the cliché of the witch. I sought out artists whose work similarly seeks to transcend narrow perceptions of women.”
The first artwork I encountered, “Chola,” was a mound of dirt surrounded by colorful women’s underwear. Balanced on crossed broom handles, a screen displayed a video of women slowly lifting up their dresses and removing multiple layers of underwear.
My friend and I instantly began making jokes. I found this piece to be an unusual choice for an exhibit that aims to empower women. “What if the reaction you and your friend had was intentional?” said Ms. Terri Moore, director of the Tremaine Art Gallery. The word “Chola” is a slang term used to describe Latina women. The artist, Katiushka Melo, a first-generation American of Chilean descent, is, according to Ms. Moore, “taking a narrative and identity that was created for women, and using [irony] to prove a point.”
There are several other pieces that challenge the viewer. Near the left wall, a collection of jewelry and amulets entitled “Apotropaia” by Chelsea Steinberg Gay rests in a separate case. Upon closer examination, these objects are inscribed with derogatory language. “The artist channels her alter ego through these necklaces, transforming the hateful words once directed at her into symbols of personal empowerment and resilience,” said Mr. Lock.
Scattered throughout the exhibit are nine wooden sculptures by artist Donna Dodson, part of a series entitled “Sheroes.” “These sculptures show positions that are often held by men, like a king of the jungle or symbols of power such as holding the head of a male ox—but with their breasts clearly out, they show their womanhood,” said Mr. Lock.
A student who walks into this exhibit with little information would have to do more than give a cursory glance to understand the work and how it makes them feel. Ms. Moore says, “You may interpret and explore many different themes. Like a book, you don’t determine the entire story with the first chapter.” Though I initially found the exhibit uncomfortable and awkward, after spending more time with the art, I realized and understood the beauty of each detail and left the exhibit appreciating the work behind each piece. However, I think that most people will not take the time to read long artist statements in order to grasp the artist’s intentions.
The show will run through January 25, 2025.
