The Fearsome BMI: Women Artists and Representations of the Body

The Fearsome BMI:  Women Artists and the Body

“Body Mass Index (BMI) is a number calculated from a person’s weight and height. BMI provides a reliable indicator of body fatness for most people and is used to screen for weight categories that may lead to health problems.”  This is the description of the BMI.  Sounds good, but is it?  It constructs an ideal for all woman that may not be conducive to a positive self image for many, particularly those from diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds. Recently there has arisen a debate about whether it is actually “reliable.” This panel at the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center, Brooklyn Museum,  will include speakers who will address contemporary mainstream ideals of beauty and health and their impact on women and diversity as seen through the eyes of contemporary women artists and scholars.

Speakers and Moderators TBA

This panel is part of a 2 part series of discussions during Women’s History Month. The first panel will take place on March 13, 7-9pm at the Tribeca Performing Arts Center.

Museum Admission required.

Sponsors: Institute for Women and Art, The Feminist Art Project, A.I.R. Gallery, Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art.