One in five young women worldwide become child brides—entering into marriage or unions before their 18th birthday. This startling statistic inspired Immaculata student Marie Wadlinger ’24 to delve deeper into the issue as part of a project in her International Relations class by researching gender inequality, a pervasive issue reflected in one of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls. As her final project, Wadlinger chose to organize an art show featuring female artists.
She was determined to bring awareness of gender inequality, through her event, the Gender Equality Art Show at Immaculata, when she discovered the various ways that gender inequality manifests itself in all corners of the world. For example, even in the United States, women make only 84% of what their male counterparts are paid. Additionally, women undertake nearly three times the amount of unpaid domestic work compared to men.
With these issues in mind, Wadlinger set out to raise awareness and funds for the Women’s Refugee Commission, an organization dedicated to improving the lives and protecting the rights of women, children, youth and other vulnerable groups affected by displacement and crises. As a communication major with minors in graphic arts, studio arts and political science, Wadlinger combined her skills to organize the art show.
“It’s very important to learn about and see the work of women artists because often the artists that students learn about in school are men,” Wadlinger noted. Eight female artists participated in the art show, including five Immaculata students. The media displayed during the art show reflected the disparate artists’ talents, including paintings, photography, ceramics, drawings, weavings and embroidery. Wadlinger, who became interested in art at a young age, enjoys producing fiber art, such as weaving. She also paints in watercolor.
Works displayed at the art show organized by Marie Wadlinger
The Gender Equality Art Show, hosted in the Rotunda of Villa Maria Hall, raised $225 for the Women’s Refugee Commission. In addition to its financial impact, the project afforded Wadlinger valuable experience in interpersonal, organizational and communication skills, as well as event planning and promotion.
Wadlinger expressed gratitude for the support she received from various campus departments and personnel, acknowledging their pivotal role in the event’s success. “Their support made this art show possible; they genuinely care about students’ passions and projects.”
She acknowledges that she has witnessed gender inequality in her own life and the lives of her female friends. “I wanted to use this project as an opportunity to make a difference,” she added.