Kensington Artist Sharpens Look at Women’s Roles

Traci Talasco’s sandpaper kitchen installation starkly states her view of the social assumptions of women’s roles, and domestic duties.

“This is more of a political piece that has to do with these unrealistic expectations for women to be homemakers,” said the Kensington artist. “We’re juggling careers and home lives but there is still this unrealistic idea that women are going to be homemakers.”

Rub Me the Wrong Way is Traci Talasco's commentary on women's roles

Talasco explained that her use of sandpaper points out the contrast between the materials that are traditionally thought of as feminine, which are usually soft and warm, to the reality of the rough duties of domestic existence. She points out that over time the sandpaper will be worn away as people walk through and touch the installation, just as she hopes the struggle against women’s traditional roles will wear down those stereotypes.

“It illustrates in a funny way this idea of women being worn out — being worn down by these expectations,” she said. “But it also metaphorically represents this idea of wearing down these gender stereotypes that don’t make sense in 2014.”

Talasco is not only interested in political statements. The exhibition, called “Rub Me the Wrong Way,” is also a work of art, Talasco contends. Each and every visitor that leaves behind a fingerprint of shoe scuff will change the piece.

“It is also something, in the end, that I feel will be visually beautiful and funny,” she said.

Traci Talasco’s installation, “Rub Me the Wrong Way” is already open at the Brooklyn Arts Council Gallery at 55 Washington Street between Front and Water Streets in Dumbo. Call 718-625-0080 for more information.