STRAPPED: A Feminist Art Project by Karin Luner

	Strapped An Unauthorized Public Project by Karin Luner 9/20/98 - A field of milkweed plants on the Johnson State College Campus in Johnson, Vermont, is prevented from germination. The pods are taped shut with 1/2" strapping tape.

	Milkweed pods, an almost classic symbol for vagina/ female/ woman imagery, have been inspirational to other female artists in the past. This project is a feminist view on my life as a woman and an artist, as well as a reflection on other women's lives in the late 90's. Not much has changed since the beginning of the feminist movement in the '70s. Contrary to what popular culture might want you to believe, the Old Boys' Club still rules.

	The tape shines in the sun. I am following the whithering of the plants. The leaves are yellowing, and the first pods of the non-taped plants begin to open. Will the tape on my plants eventually fall off, and let my pods open up and let their seeds fly? I hope, that in my life time I will get to see the Congress made up of at least 50% women, as well as a better reflection of the country's racial demographics.

	Two women photographers, Karin Weiner and Adele Shaw, have been following the development of this project during the months of October and November of 1998. P.S. Yes, the tape is not bio-degradable, but so are your plastic shopping bags, etc. More crimes commited on campus A serious milkweed sculpture A religious sculpture "Holy Baloney" Other art work by Karin Luner in connection with an exhibition on gender: "Genderplex" Naked picture of the artist... If you want to bitch and moan or have something else to say or want to invite us to a show, e-mail! (I do check this address from time to time)luner.k@gmail.com Thoughts on Octavio Paz' wife
	All images are copyright protected by Karin Luner, Adele Shaw, and Karin Weiner©1998

Strapped