Inspired by the 19th century practice of botanical collecting - specimens placed, pressed and labeled in books - I have gathered everyday objects in a similar manner. These objects are specimens of life: precious items collected, saved, valued and tucked away.
Because women have been written out of most of history, there is a heightened significance to women’s material culture and the stories each piece tells. These remnants provide us with an opportunity to recognize their value, to interpret their stories, and to ponder not only what was cherished but by whom. We must also ask who had the privilege to save things at all - who had both the means and the capability?
