As the United States celebrates Women’s History Month, an art installation in Potsdam, New York honors some special individuals whose lives have made history in the North Country.
Even though each of the women made a significant contribution to her community, the art exhibit organizers warn some of their names risk being forgotten. They hope the artwork sheds light on women who have mostly remained in the shadows of history.
The Dinner Party: Judy Chicago Reimagined, a project of the St. Lawrence County Arts Council, honors eight North Country women, plus the artist whose historical piece inspired the current installation.
Activist Judy Chicago’s provocative 1970s installation The Dinner Party features China plates and place settings paying homage to 39 famous females, some mythical, some historical. It is currently on display at the Brooklyn Museum.
Installation curator Erica Kelso spoke with Spotlight producer Paul Larson about how the project in Potsdam commemorates groundbreaking female achievement and fosters solidarity within the community.
You may see The Dinner Party: Judy Chicago Reimagined at the Creative Spirit Community Arts Center in Potsdam until March 26.
Visitors are welcome to bring hygiene and cleaning products to the center, which will be donated to the Renewal House, a nonprofit in Canton serving victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
If you miss seeing the artwork in Potsdam, the installation will also be on display at the Downtown Artist Cellar in Malone from March 28 until April 11.
A speaker series is enhancing the art installation in Potsdam, showcasing influential voices in our region.
Women in the North Country Series
Kayla Riley: Educator, writer and single mother … March 15 at 6pm in the Creative Spirit Community Arts Center
Anastasia Sultzer: Hosting a tattoo flash sale to benefit The Dinner Party: Judy Chicago Reimagined project mission … March 21 from 12 – 8 pm at Cotton & Bones Creative Company, 11 Market Street in Potsdam
Tracy S. Wanamaker: Visiting instructor at the Crane School of Music, speaking on music therapy for people with developmental disabilities and dementia care … March 26 at 6pm in the Creative Spirit Community Arts Center
Where to see The Dinner Party: Judy Chicago Reimagined
From now until March 26
Creative Spirit Community Arts Center
6 Raymond Street, Potsdam, NY
From March 28 until April 11
Downtown Artist Cellar
410 East Main Street, Malone, NY
Spotlight is made possible, in part, by the Glenn and Carol Pearsall Adirondack Foundation, dedicated to improving the quality of life for year-round residents of the Adirondack Park. Spotlight is also supported by Hill and Hollow Music.