The MATC Create Pathway welcomed photographer Stephanie Bartz for the opening showcase of her photography project “Breaking Barriers, Women in the Workforce.” Bartz’s photo series consists of black and white environmental portraits of women in predominantly male dominated trades and careers. Bartz invited a few artist friends and photography students to share their work as a part of the exhibition as well: multimedia artist Roxane Mayeur who uses wax to convey strong emotional messages, painter Dara Larson whose work is strategically subtle with heavy social and political messages, and Ann Baer who uses ironing boards as her canvases. Photography students whose works were included are Shari Wszalek, Donovan Sawyer and me. The photo exhibition is open now until April 4. It is on display in the Create Gallery at the Downtown Milwaukee Campus, Room M172.
Bartz shares her inspiration for creating this project. “I wanted to shine a light on women who have gone against the grain. Uplifting, supporting, and representation has been my mission. The most challenging part is balancing running my photo business and life while also working on this project. Right now it’s self-funded and it takes a lot of energy, time, money, and commitment to do this project. This is a passion project, so who knows where it will take me. The most rewarding part for me has been the genuine connections with other women. There’s a part of me that is living vicariously through these women. They have inspired me in so many ways,” Bartz said. The showcase opened on March 13.
