The Luxury of Exercise
2009 (Date manufactured/created)
Bronze
Bronze
Measurement Notes: Dimensions Extent: varied; see below
Framed?: No
Framed?: No
Mixed media artist Claudia DeMonte is known for her analysis of contemporary women’s roles. Her “Luxury of Exercise” series was inspired by a 1970s trip to Tunisia, where she saw a man on a donkey whipping a woman carrying a load on her back. The sight helped DeMonte realize that it is a privilege to live in a culture in which many women exercise as a pastime rather than as part of their daily responsibilities. However, beauty and fashion standards that require women to buy specialized athleticwear and maintain a gym membership have resulted in a commodified exercise industry. When consumers are pushed to buy diet foods, pay personal trainers, and spend hours working out, is exercise a luxury or another form of labor?
Anonymous Gift, in honor of Lyda Hawkins Wright, 2017
2017.18ab