m OTHER

Curated by Blakelee Pieroni, the group exhibition m OTHER is a provocative and contemplative showcase of artwork that explores the infrequently discussed topic of stepmotherhood. Through a range of live performance art, mixed media installations, workshops, and other visual mediums, m OTHER challenges the societal norms surrounding the misunderstood role stepmothers play within a familial unit. The core of the exhibition reveals the isolation and loss of personhood one must endure when entering the role. The exhibit shines a light on the overlooked efforts that stepmothers face, while various artists produce real-time, creative research and data in a safe space removed from traditional family cohabitation.

Pieroni encourages visitors to question nuclear family norms and societal pressures that keep this undervalued group silent. m OTHER is a vital showcase that analyzes the complexities of stepmotherhood and invites visitors to engage with the issues surrounding modern-day family dynamics. The exhibition serves as a compelling reminder that subject-object dualism remains a burden on human behavior. Breaking free from commonplace stigmas, statistics, and stereotypes, m OTHER advocates for a collective unraveling of the definition of family, through detachment of conventional patterns and territorial principles.

Personhood, performed at m OTHER at ChaShaMa 65th St Gallery, 2023

Treading on Ice, performed at m OTHER at ChaShaMa 65th St Gallery, 2023

Umbra, performed at m OTHER at ChaShaMa 65th St Gallery, 2023

m OTHER: The Misunderstood Other Mother

m OTHER: The Misunderstood Other Mother documentary, directed by Clare Louise Cheyne, premiered at Through Women’s Eyes Film Festival on March 9, 2024, and was accepted into the Hollywood Shortfest shortly after. The documentary delves into the challenges faced by stepmothers, dispelling the “Wicked Stepmother” stereotype. Through the insights from six women, the film aims to amplify their voices, shedding light on the psychological strains stepmothers endure. Virtual and in-person screenings available: Through Women’s Eyes Film Festival Virtual Screening.

Open Submissions

Dear Stepmom,

I’m inviting you to participate in m OTHER, an ongoing project involving rotating group exhibitions, workshops, and more.

m OTHER stands as a supportive community for stepmom artists, providing a space for sharing art, experiences, and navigating the complexities of family life. The exhibitions feature stepmoms from various fields, including artists, educators, performers, and more. No prior professional experience is necessary. 

To apply as an artist:

  • Submit 1-5 images of your artwork in the format: First and Last Name_Title of Work_Price of Work.

  • All work should be formatted to 16 x 9 or 9 x 16 aspect ratio.

  • All mediums are accepted: poetry, art, film, dance, writing, music, painting, etc.

  • 100% of commissions go to the artists.

To apply for live performances: (music, dance, live painting, etc):

  • Please send a video or an example of what you would like to perform. 

  • State the duration of performance 

  • Must be available March 15th 

To apply to speak in a panel discussion:

  • Provide what you would bring to a discussion around stepmotherhood.

  • Share perspectives, methods, and solutions.

  • Comfort in sharing experiences publicly is crucial.

  • All discussions will be filmed.

  • Any examples of past work is appreciated. 

Workshops:

We aim to provide a variety of resources for stepmoms in our exhibit, building on the success of previous writing, meditation, and drawing workshops. If interested in leading a workshop, kindly outline your proposed activities, emphasizing their effectiveness and healing aspects for stepmoms. 

  • Specify the maximum number of participants you can comfortably instruct.

  • Specify materials and equipment.

  • Include your preferred day and time during the exhibit window.

General applications:

If your experience doesn't fit into the mentioned categories, we still encourage you to apply. More diversity enriches our community.

Participation Fee:

If accepted, there is a $100 fee for the exhibit. The fee covers maintenance and operations in the gallery to support the exhibit. Participants enjoy free access to workshops, panel discussions, screenings, and performances. All exhibit content will be provided for personal promotional use.

This is a filmed exhibit, promising to capture and share the essence of our collective experiences. We eagerly anticipate your application to make "m OTHER" 2024 an even more enriching and diverse showcase.

To apply for the "m OTHER" Exhibit, please submit all necessary documents through the form fill or contact me directly.