I, MOM: In Memory of Mothers is community arts installation that combines hand-made art and activisim to raise awareness of the maternal healthcare crisis that exists in the United States.
In 2011, 4 million children were born in the United States, and 24 out of every 100,000 of those children lost their mothers. The Center for Disease Control lists 2/3 of those maternal deaths as “entirely preventable,” the result of inadequate care or negligence, prompting Amnesty International USA to officially label the maternal death rate in the U.S. a crisis. With 24 out of every 100,000 mothers dying, the United States ranks 41st in the world for maternal safety.
To help draw attention to this crisis and to the 640 women whose deaths were entirely preventable, I am creating an installation in their honor. Exploring the rich tradition of mothers making dolls for their children, and with a keen respect for the doll's history as a magic, religious, and healing icon, I have invited the community to join me in creating 640 dolls as a testament to the mothers who will never make their child a doll.
The 640 dolls collected from across the US are being installed and displayed during the Santa Fe University of Art and Design's senior thesis show, NONA starting April 27th, 2012. The installation will act as a visible reminder of victims, survivors, and families touched by the crisis, and challange viewers to take action.
It was Carl Wilkens who wrote, “When we make something with our hands, it changes the way we feel, which changes the way we think.” By involving the community, I hope to reach not only the hands, but also the hearts and minds of other,s in order to bring healing.
If you would like find out how to get involved in I, MOM, or have any questions or comments about the installation or the show, please check the GET INVOLVED tab, or feel free to contact me directly at Anna_Ryan@mail.com.
