Rhonda Schaller Studio

Projects Room Gallery 1
Feminist thought, Feminist movement -- curated project series

Traditions, Visions, and Herstory : Experiments in Wisdom
Alina Poroshina, April Schweinhart, Helen Klebesadel, Kate Pollard, Sara Nguyen, Vadis Turner, Marla Mossman, Pat Goodman, Liza Lambertini, Vardis Carmelli, Robin Antar, Traci Zaretzka, Ruthanne F. Bauerle, Peggy Nichols

There is a legacy within the body of feminist artwork of re-telling traditional stories outside of the accepted patriarchal interpretations. This exhibition presents the re-telling of Herstory, with subject matter referencing a variety of sources, and artwork created with a diversity of mediums. Each of the artists chosen for this curated project present their voice within this context. We are delighted to present this comparison and overview of Feminist perspectives.

Rhonda Schaller

My ultimate intent is to relate my own feelings and experiences through covert symbolism, offering the viewer a chance to relate my subjectivity to their individual vision. I strive to paint the soul of my subjects and draw my inspiration in my Armenian and Russian heritage. (AP)

Female sexuality is used as a tool by men to gain power. However, it is time that women take back power over their own sexuality. Through the media of collage, I seek to express the history of the treatment of women, especially struggles with our sexuality and the abuse of such. (AS)

© Kate Pollard Untitled from the series “This Woman’s Movement” 16” x 20’ Photograph

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© Kate Pollard Untitled from the series “This Woman’s Movement” 16” x 20’ Photograph

This series of images addresses issues surrounding a sense of self and the pressures of conforming to a variety of ideals in today’s society. It is a personal reaction to being in a state of looking within, while reconciling external expectations. (KP)

I seek to use visual language to expand what we can imagine is possible. In some instances I am trying to express concepts for which we do not seem to have words.. to find inspiration in the images and objects traditionally associated with the female in this culture. I both celebrate and critique the social power associated with gender role divisions. My paintings document my creative and critical thinking as I re-examine those roles and consider my place in them. (HRK)

The Goddess, the center and higher self, is shown as luminous, exquisite, and unashamed…Persian lettering, Hebrew writing and the Buddhist position for peaceful meditation shows that all philosophies share in the notions of beauty and loving-kindness. Our openness leads to an honesty that can heal the violent attitudes that are so prevalent throughout a world that prefers repression to free expression. (MM)

Like many artists, I have always been fascinated with the human, and in particular the female. My work has found its voice in the depiction and portraiture of women, often mothers and their families, with an emphasis on their humanity and spirituality. (SAN)

The voice of the women of Mali resounds loud and clear. It is fully apparent that they are very well aware of their own worth. (VC)

Our identity is determined by how we use our time. Advancements in entertainment and technology have replaced many cultural traditions and diluted gender roles. Synthesizing materials that represent contemporary cultural issues with traditional forms of handicraft illustrates how we spend our time and define our values. (VT)

My mission as a sculptor is to create a visual record of modern culture by capturing the everyday objects of our time in stone. (RA)

My rule of life is to do that which brings me peace. As a mixed media collage artist, I am able to express a visual statement about the the human spirit. In many cultures, in the lives of women, creativity is often discouraged. My art is made from tiny pieces which bring great peace. (PG)

My art connects the feminine and nature, shows the feminine in nature. My paintings counter the male (phallic) imagery that is so readily accepted, by defining their own feminine beauty. (TZ)

This tree is The Celtic Tree of Woman’s lives. The women depicted here are called “Dryads”. Dryads are in folklore as living beings who are part tree, part woman or fairy. They send their roots deep into the earth and reach up toward the sky “Tree of Life, Life Giver”. (LL)

In 1969 I saw a poster depicting a tree as a woman’s body entitled ‘Mother Earth’ and the image has stayed with me ever since. My serious interest in photography began in the 1980’s and over the years, I have found a number of natural tree formations that have reminded me of that poster I saw so long ago. (RFB)

The Korai is a Greek word to describe an era in art history when artists began to depict the female form from a simplistic to a narrative of complete naturalism, becoming the communication of ideal feminine beauty. The illuminated figure in the shop window represents what I believe to be a replicant of our icons, the Goddess and feminine idealism. (PN)

The Korai represents a time in history when the Goddess was revered, when women were held in high status, owned property and their matrilineal lineage was carried on by their last name. By the 5th century BC, the Goddess and women's status was forever altered. She lost her power. Mysteriously, her image as Goddess disappeared from the ancient Western world. Today we see her phantom image, long ago replaced by superficial decorum….unaware of her true nature. (PN)

For purchase availability please contact Rhonda Schaller, Gallery Director, Tel 212 967 1338 or info@rhondaschallerchelsea.com.