A few years ago, I started to explore ideas around modernity. I’m interested in the development of modern appliances, their design and how marketers appealed to women of the era. I believe the development of these machines and the advertising surrounding them helped to reinforce women’s subjectivity.

The myth of the housewife’s role, as illustrated in modern (1950s/60s) media in the guise of the likes of June Cleaver and Donna Reed, led many working-class women to resent their role as wife and mother, causing some of them to think of their children as products first and human beings second.

 This exhibition uses collage and assemblage with objects and advertising from the era to explore my ideas. Oil paint and pastels are used to obscure some of the items and ads making the collages something of an archeological dig.

The three pieces in the Cycles series combine my ideas surrounding this exhibition, Modern Conveniences, and my work with 30 Dresses. JoAnna's other websites: www.30Dresses.com and www.lessonsintwirling.com