In Between: Perspectives on Art Motherhood

Exhibition Overview

In-Between asks viewers to consider the work of a Feminist Mother whose identity is rooted in the practice of artistic creation that happens in-between moments of Mothering.

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This show is an expression of Rachael Grad’s practice of “Matricentric Feminism,” a term conceived by Dr. Andrea O’Reilly. This type of feminism puts Motherhood at its centre. The category of Mother is distinct from that of woman, and many of the problems Mothers face are specific to women’s role and identity as Mothers.

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Rachael Grad searches for the specific modalities Mothers use to carve out space and time for work, art, family, and health, and what tactics might be envisioned. For over a decade, her art practice has morphed from long solitary studio sessions to art making bursts at home in between childcare tasks and among children. As a result, Grad took on a practice of “play” in her artwork. Play and experimentation in this sense is her way of reclaiming a freedom often not allowed to women as artists, and, in particular, Artist- Mothers. As she incorporates her children’s toys into her work, Grad can multitask Mothering and artistic practice.

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The practice of play is integral to the longevity of the Artist-Mother’s practice, and to the acts of identity preservation within the Feminist Mothering experience. Incorporating her children’s beloved stuffed animals and toys into her work to practice play, Grad explores themes of Feminist Mothering through her artwork. The curatorial objective is to amplify Grad’s practice of play and to encourage it amongst those who hold the responsibility of care in their lives, be it for their children or others.

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In-Between brings together a collection of new and existing artworks by Rachael Grad, culminating her Feminist Mothering practice. Through a series of sketchbook drawings, paintings, assemblage, and by traversing borders to cross over into the digital world, In- Between asks visitors to partake in the practice of play and view works closely through a simulated virtual reality experience. To play is to feel free. The art studio is a place where one can playfully invent oneself. When a Mother plays, she is the creative subject.

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In-Between: Perspectives on Artist Motherhood is a collaboration between Artist-Mother, Rachael Grad, and curator, Abbey Humphreys-Morris.

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Special thanks to Jacob Loat, who designed our virtual reality experience.