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On Equal Terms: A Mixed-Media Installation by Susan Eisenberg

October 6, 2008 - January 9, 2009 

On Equal Terms combines realistic and fanciful works of art with personal testimonies to bring viewers into the frontline experience of the first tradeswomen who crossed onto construction sites. Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Affirmative Action, the exhibition celebrates the pioneers, as well as the tradeswomen and their allies who have kept the gates open for three decades.

On Equal Terms honors the construction industry, while aiming to increase employment equity for women in the trades. The exhibition focuses conversation about the cost of gender barriers in any occupation – and what it would mean to treat all individuals on equal terms.

Susan Eisenberg, an artist, poet, activist, WSRC Scholar, and master electrician, has interviewed more than thirty other women in the trades about their experiences. Her installation reflects these candid conversations.  

Curated by Wendy Tarlow Kaplan.

Film Screening: Transnational Tradeswomen (2006) with Filmmaker Vivian Price

Monday, October 13, 3:30 – 5:00 p

Transnational Tradeswomen documents a road trip, set off by the 1995 Women’s Conference in Beijing, that explores the situations of women construction laborers in Asia. The story disturbs the common notion that modernization, education, and technology result in gender equality and the alleviation of poverty. It also raises the question: does the gendering of work in construction provide a transnational connection among the women who work in the industry?

Lown building, Room 203

Opening Reception

Honoring the Contributions of Massachusetts Tradeswomen

Thursday, October 16, 5:30 – 7:30 pm

WSRC, Kniznick Gallery

Tradeswomen Conference - "30 Years and Still Organizing"

Saturday, October 18, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Speakers include Nancy Mason, IBEW Local 46/Seattle, and local tradeswomen. Moderated by Susan Eisenberg.

Suggested contribution: $10

Please RSVP by Friday, October 10 to wsrcarts@brandeis.edu or 781-736-8102

WSRC, Liberman Miller Lecture Hall

The Lonesomeness of Pioneering

Tuesday, October 28, 12:30 pm

Surrounded by her installation, Susan Eisenberg reads poems about construction work - and the women who install power, move earth, and add their signature to the skyline. Meet at the bathroom shack at the WSRC.

WSRC, Kniznick Gallery

Building the Future

Monday, December 8, 10:00 am 

Vocational-technical high school students are invited to a special viewing of "On Equal Terms." Followed by discussion about the art exhibit and students' hopes for their careers. Please RSVP to wsrcarts@brandeis.edu

WSRC, Kniznick Gallery

Location and Information

Gallery Hours: Monday through Friday from 9am until 5pm and by appointment. 

Please note that the gallery will be closed on October 9; November 27 & 28; and December 24 at noon through January 4.

Kniznick Gallery, The Women's Studies Research Center, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA 02453

Located in the Epstein Building, 515 South Street (Directly across from the Brandeis-Roberts Commuter Rail Station).