October 27, 2004

Boise State Women's Center Presents Body Image Project

The Women’s Center at Boise State University will present The Body Image Project, beginning Thursday, Nov. 4, with a lecture by artist Larry Kirkwood. Kirkwood visited campus earlier this fall to cast images of both male and female bodies. He then finished the edges to make the torsos resemble older sculptural pieces, with emphasis on the parts of the body most used to sell products. Kirkwood aims to change the way people view themselves and the way they perceive others. For many people in our society body image or outside appearance is a key factor in determining self worth, he said. “This exhibit strives to give you a more honest and healthy view of who we really are physically,” he said. “Specifically, this project deals with prejudices such as sexism, racism, and ageism, and judgments about weight and height. While it does use our appearance as a springboard to discussion, in the end, we must understand that it is what is inside a person that makes them who they are.” A reception will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the lecture at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 4. His work will then be on display through Dec. 1 in the Student Union Gallery. All events are free and open to the public. For more information about this project or to see photos of Kirkwood’s work, visit his website at www.kirkwoodstudios.com  or http://womenscenter.boisestate.edu.   -30- Contact: Melissa Wintrow, Women’s Center, (208) 426-4259, mwintrow@boisestate.edu  Media Contact: Sherry Squires, communications and marketing, (208) 426-1563, ssquires@boisestate.edu  Editor’s note: A preview of Larry Kirkwood’s exhibit is on display at the Boise State University Women’s Center.