Mary Kelly, "Post Partum Document"

Mary Kelly's Post Partum Document (1973-9) is another classic conceptualist re-articulation of the relation between text and image / theory and art – though this time from a feminist persepctive.

The work traces the development of the mother-child relationship between her and her child, starting in 1973. It provoked tabloid outrage in its initial presentation at the ICA in 1976 because of its use of soiled nappies!

The work is interesting for weaving together a series of different kinds of text (the first words and graphic marks of the child, her own personal voice as a mother, psychoanalytical/feminist theory, and the more bureaucratic discourses of the medical, etc. professions which "write" ordinary people's experience.

More can be found about the work on Kelly's website:
http://www.marykellyartist.com/post_partum_document.html

Mary Kelly, Post Partum Document, detail. Perpsex units, white card, wool vests, pencil, ink
1 of 4 units, 20 x 25.5 cm each.

Another detail. Perpsex units, white card, diaper linings, plastic sheeting, paper,ink
31 units, 28 x 35.5 cm each

Anther detail. Perpsex unit, white card, wood, paper, ink, rubber. 1 of the 26 units, 20 x 25.5 cm. Collection, Art Gallery of Ontario