Domestic Blues arranges women in a way that underscores the connection between traditional crafts, “women’s work,” and the home. The fan quilt pattern refers to the use of fans in western society as a device for flirtatious deception. Relentless messages imposed by media and advertising posit that a woman’s appearance is the most important or significant aspect of her identity by always showing her as appealing and satisfying. This questionable aspect of our culture begs the question, who is the deceiver and who is the deceived in our society when women are portrayed as “pure, alluring, refreshing, and delicious, good as homemade?”

(This happens to be one of my favorite wall pieces — I think the blue lady depicts how it feels to take care of two small children at home alone.

Recycled tin cans and vintage steel dollhouses.

Dimensions: 10.75" H x 10.75" W x 1.5" D

Available for purchase or exhibition.  

© Harriete Estel Berman, 2021