Photo by Krista Franklin, “Self-Portrait in the Aftermath,” 2020

“Reproductive: Health, Fertility, Agency” features work by contemporary artists Laia Abril, Candice Breitz, Elinor Carucci, Jess T. Dugan, Krista Franklin, Candy Guinea, KING COBRA, Joanne Leonard, Wangechi Mutu, and Carmen Winant. The exhibition, which is on view until February 2, explores the psychological, physical, and emotional realities encountered by women and people assigned female at birth in the years leading up to, during, and after fertility. The artists featured consider a range of topics including birth, miscarriage, pleasure, lack of access to abortion, trauma, and the loss of fertility. The title, ”Reproductive,” refers to the act of copying something, like a photograph, and the biological creation of offspring. 

The exhibition was organized by the Museum of Contemporary Photography at Columbia College, Chicago, with local oversight by Jessica D. Brier, Curator of Photography at the Loeb. “In bringing this exhibition to Vassar, it is important to me that we consider—and provide support for—our campus community and the larger surrounding community in presenting this material,” says Brier, noting that “many of the experiences referenced by the artists in the exhibition are deeply personal and will likely prompt a variety of responses for visitors.” Brier adds, “It is our hope that the exhibition will be a hub for the important work that these partners do in the realms of reproductive health, justice, and rights.” Admission is free. Tuesdays through Sundays, 10 am to 5pm.—vassar.edu/theloeb