The Resistance of Womxn: A Century of Suffrage
Themed Portfolio Exchange organized by Claire Bowman, Tara Segars, and Susanna Harris
Description
This portfolio celebrates the centennial for the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America. The 19th Amendment, ratified June 6, 1920 in Ohio, states: “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex.” The printed arts have historically played key roles in the publicity and success of just causes, from the women’s suffrage movement in the early 20th century to the first Women’s March in 2017. Posters for groups organized in the 26 states that ratified the 19th Amendment are beautifully designed works of art. Many are lithographs printed in multiple colors and illustrate images of women portrayed as humble and heroic, fighting to Win the Vote. There are also the iconic buttons and banners women would print and distribute publicly to help build recognition and support for the amendment. This massive distribution of printed material played a vital role in winning over public opinion for women’s rights, something we as printmakers should celebrate.
As the Women’s Marches of 2017 and 2018 showed however, we still have a ways to go to reach equality. Inclusivity and intersectionality are continually needed as we move forward. Rights we have gained need defending, while others still need to be written. The Equal Rights Amendment still needs ratification, initially introduced to Congress in 1928. Voices still need to be heard, and we all must work to support them. Print media provides an opportunity of expression, circulation, and resistance little seen in other media. Therefore, while this portfolio is a celebration of the achievements of our predecessors in reaching toward equality, it is also a call to action, a reminder of the power of print as a form of resistance and revolution.
About the organizers
Susanna Harris
As an environmentalist Susanna uses organic matter, handmade paper, curated plastic, and dying techniques to create prints, books, and assemblage art. Her work pushes the viewer toward a curiosity and understanding of environmental issues created by detrimental human interactions with the earth.
Tara Segars
Tara is a printmaker from Alabama who works primarily with silkscreen and relief processes. Her current work focuses on the use of video games as coping mechanisms for depression, as well as the act of failure through games. She previously created work addressing the objectification of women and body image issues.
Claire Bowman
Claire is a printmaker from Cincinnati, Ohio, with a BFA in studio art from the University of Dayton. Working mainly in linocut, her work focuses on the female body and perception of self, exploring the effects of societal objectification of women.
Participants
Claire Bowman, Elizabeth Elich, Fraixa Albizu, Heather Muise, Jennifer Scheuer, Kaleena Stasiak, Katherine Fries, Katie Marie Bruce, Madelaine Grace Peltier, Shannon Ferguson, Susanna Harris, Tara Segars, Zoe Hermsen
Hours
10am-5pm Sunday
Location
Alan Lipson Gallery
Cleveland Institute of Art ground floor
11610 Euclid Ave, Cleveland
Wearing face coverings at this location is strongly recommended, and official protocols are determined by the CDC’s community level spread for Cuyahoga County. When community spread is low or medium, masks are optional. When community spread is high, masks are required. As of 10/08/2022, community spread is medium and masks are recommended. Being up-to-date on Covid-19 vaccinations is also strongly recommended at this location. More information here: https://www.cia.edu/about-us/safety-security/smart-return-to-school