The Art of ‘The Change’
You never know where the conversation will lead before and after a class at Pier 11 Studio! Recently, the topic of menopause came up after someone commented on how warm the room was and joked, "Am I just having a hot flash?” Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycle, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. While various physical and emotional challenges often accompany it, it can also serve as a profound catalyst for creativity and self-expression! Throughout history, women have turned to art to navigate their experiences, and in the context of menopause, this creative outlet can become an essential tool for understanding and embracing change. Humor sure does help!
Pictured: Ramon Casas, Jove Decadent, (1899)
Art has long been a refuge for those experiencing life's transitions. For menopausal women, creating art can provide a space for reflection, exploration, and healing. The hormonal fluctuations and physical symptoms associated with menopause—such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances—can lead to feelings of isolation and vulnerability. Engaging in artistic practices, whether through painting, writing, dance, or music, allows women to channel these emotions into tangible forms of expression. This act of creation can be cathartic, helping to alleviate anxiety and foster a sense of empowerment.
Moreover, art can serve as a powerful medium for storytelling. Women can share their journeys through menopause, challenging societal pressures and stigmas surrounding this life stage. By depicting their experiences through various art forms, they can create a sense of community and understanding among those who may feel alone in their struggles. Exhibitions and performances focused on the theme of menopause can invite dialogue and inspire others to share their narratives, ultimately reshaping the cultural conversation around this significant life transition.
Pictured: Laurie Anderson, Untitled (STREB), 2019
The intersection of menopause and art also highlights the potential for reinvention. Many women find that this phase of life offers an opportunity to rediscover passions and pursue new creative endeavors. As they navigate the complexities of menopause, they may feel a renewed sense of purpose, leading to the exploration of different artistic mediums or styles. For some, this can mean taking up painting for the first time, trying their hand at writing poetry or even exploring performance art. The liberation that comes from embracing one's creativity can be empowering and transformative.
Furthermore, many artists have used their platforms to address the themes of aging and the female experience. Icons like Frida Kahlo and Georgia O'Keeffe have explored their identities and femininity through their art, often reflecting on their personal struggles. Contemporary artists continue this tradition, using their work to challenge societal norms and celebrate the beauty of aging. By incorporating menopause into their narratives, these artists contribute to a broader understanding of women's experiences, fostering a sense of solidarity and acceptance.
Pictured: Frida Kahlo with Olmec Figurine, Courtesy Nickolas Muray Photo Archives
“I used to think I was the strangest person in the world, but then I thought there are so many people in the world, there must be someone just like me who feels bizarre and flawed in the same ways that I do. I would imagine her, and imagine that she must be out there thinking of me too. Well, I hope that if you are out there and read this and know that, yes, it’s true, I’m here, and I’m just as strange as you.”
—Frida Kahlo
Therapeutic and self-care practices that involve creative expression can help women process their feelings and cope with the challenges of this life transition. Whether through guided workshops or self-directed projects, art therapy can provide a safe space for exploration and healing, allowing women to connect with their inner selves and articulate their experiences in a supportive environment.
Pictured: Betye Saar, Keep for Old Memoirs, 1976.
Keep for Old Memiors is one of a series of assemblages Betye Saar made with items that belonged to her great-aunt Hattie Parson Keys, who had died the previous year. “The letters, autographs, hankies, scraps of lace, and fabric are fragments from the past,” Saar said, “a sort of sentimental journey back when time moved slower and people collected memories.” Here, these elements are collaged into a picture frame caressed by two gloves.
In conclusion, the relationship between menopause and art is one of resilience and empowerment. As women navigate the complexities of this life stage, artistic expression can serve as a powerful tool for reflection, community building, and personal growth. By embracing creativity, women can transform their experiences of menopause into meaningful narratives, celebrating the beauty of change and the strength that comes from self-expression. Through art, they not only find solace but also pave the way for future generations to view menopause as a natural and empowering part of life.
