In My Body

At the risk of sounding cliché, I'm going to be truthful—there is, perhaps, no touchier subject for a woman than her body. Why so many of us see our self-worth as directly related to the number on the scale or the size of the bump on our nose is baffling, but even the most self-assured and confident ladies have moments of obsessing over minor flaws or feeling downright fugly. And yes, I mean fugly.

Enter the In My Body project, aimed at exploring and impacting body image in the 21st century through photography, song, dance and discussion. The event is running through January, and it features three key elements, with the first being a photo exhibit (and the inspiration for the project) by local photographer Leah MacDonald. MacDonald, who has been photographing a diverse mix of women for over twenty years, created the exhibit to celebrat the female form while pondering its relationship to self-perception, body image and human emotion. Though it opened this past Friday, Leah's photos will be at the Wexler Gallery for your viewing pleasure through December.

The second major component of the project is the roundtable discussion, which will be held on December 12th and features a panel of experts in a variety of fields and industries, plus members of the general community. Admission is $20 and includes brunch and a viewing of MacDonald's photographs. With the question, "Are we ever truly at home in our own body?" at the forefront of the discussion, it's sure to be a lively debate.

Finally, there will be a multi-arts performance, featuring song, dance, text and video, and performed by local dancers, singers and musicians. Admission is $25 (with student tickets available) for the performance, which is aimed at investigating and illuminating the emotions behind MacDonald's collection of photographs.

The In My Body project definitely sounds thought-provoking and worthwhile, so head over if you have a free hour or two to check out Leah's photos, see the performance, or partake in some provocative discussion during what is sure to be another hectic holiday season. Your mind and body will thank you for the positive attention. (-ck)

In My Body Photography Exhibition

Through Dec. 31st, 2010

The Wexler Gallery

201 N. 3rd Street

P: 215 923 – 7030, www.wexlergallery.com

In My Body Roundtable Discussion

Sunday, Dec. 12th, at 11:30 a.m.

The Wexler Gallery

In My Body Performance

Saturday, Jan. 22nd, at 7 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 23rd, at 3 p.m.

The Painted Bride

230 Vine Street

(215) 925-9914, www.paintedbride.org

Inmybody.org
(215) 625-3650