The Feminine Lived Experience is the first installment of a two-part exhibition. The Masculine Lived Experience opens on July 7, 2025. Eighteen artists from across Canada are featured in the exhibitions, each articulating a visual narrative of how social norms as well as traditions, learned behaviours and stereotypes impact self-perception and lived experience.

Each of us is impacted by social norms, which are “expectation[s] about appropriate behaviour in a group context. . .  Norms not only detail what is appropriate behaviour, but these expectations in turn define what the group does, and who the group is.”  

Social norms can influence who we become, how we see the world and how we treat others. For example, they can be a cause of prejudice, as “about half of all prejudiced attitudes are based only on the need to conform.”  

This exhibition aims to articulate the personal impact that social norms can have within contemporary society. The Feminine Lived Experience features nine insightful artists with immense self-awareness. Some utilize introspection as a guide, questioning and examining and then expressing their contemplation visually.

Contributing artist Bria Fernandes explains, “My work is an expression of my social and cultural experiences as a Black woman. It begins with an introspection where I draw from real life, bringing into clear focus thoughts and feelings.”

Artist Websites

Explore more about the artists featured in The Feminine Lived Experience by visiting their websites:

April Matisz

Bria Fernandes

Destiny Kirumira

Jessica Plattner

Joon Hee Kim

Karen Savard Klassen

Riisa Gundesen

Tammy Salzl

Taryn Kneteman