Art of Girlhood

What makes up girlhood? 
Everything, really. 

The elements, both concrete and intangible, that comprise girlhood have all to do with resources, choice and the varying levels of power girls have over their daily lives.  It may seem obvious, yet how girls eat, sleep, dress, communicate, and move about dictates the women that they will become.  Domestic interior spaces are commonly held to be the safest setting for girlhood to take place, learning from mothers the social and familial expectations of what it means to be a girl. This may be pleasant and joyful, as well as painful and awkward. 

Family size also has a large impact on girlhood, whether food, clothes and chores are shared or solo work. Whether girls have siblings to take care of, play with, dress up or hide from affects their socialization. Girls play an important part in family events, like weddings and birthdays. As well, their participation in traditional community rituals is essential for unity.  The songs, games and stories told are also important parts of girlhood to preserve. Fine art as well as diaries, photographs and material, such as jewelry, toys and clothes provides the historical evidence for us to glean girl culture. The 'Art of Girlhood' explores these and similar themes.