MOTHERS OF OUR NATIONS

MOTHERS OF OUR NATIONS, our 2016-2017 project, explored the unique role women play in instigating social change by shining a light on groups of women leading the way in our local communities. Sixteen visual artists and poets partnered with women-led groups in Milwaukee and Madison who are taking action to improve the world around them. From environmental justice and human trafficking to inmate reentry and equity in STEM fields, we worked with a cross-section of women who are fighting for a better future for all of us. Knowing their work is often done without thanks or praise, the project was also meant to serve as a loud, long cheer for them — a standing ovation.

Our artists created original work to honor these leaders and the issues they’re tackling. Our partner groups not only helped inform the work, some participated in making it as well. After the final exhibition ended, the works were gifted to the community partner groups.

ARTISTS & PARTNER GROUPS
Center for Self Sufficiency x Rosana Lazcano
Crafting Resilient Girls at Alice's Garden x Tiffany Miller
Grateful Girls x Jasmine Barmore
The Healing Center x Nova Czarnecki
Latinas en Acción x Marcela "Xela" Garcia
Milwaukee Water Commons x Tia Chianti Richardson
Pearls for Teen Girls x Kierston Ghaznavi
Planned Parenthood x Katie Mullen & Jordan Pintar
Raging Grannies of Madison x Jenna Van Ornum
The Real UW x Mikey Apollo
Riverwest FemFest x Rachel Hughes
UNIDOS Against Domestic Violence x Jenie Gao
Wildlife in Need Center x Miranda Petroviak
Women in Wisconsin Strengthening Astronomy x Tazia Azarenko

PRESS ABOUT THE PROJECT
"Mothers of Our Nations Honors Women Leading Change"
MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL

"New Art Exhibit Honors Women Leading Social Change"
88NINE RADIO MILWAUKEE

"Mothers of Our Nations Art Exhibit Recognizes Women-led Organizations"
MILWAUKEE NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS SERVICE

SPONSORED BY
Alverno College