Date Created

8-2019

Embargo Date

6-26-2019

Abstract

This research explores the experience of welding and automotive trades through the lens of a woman and the gender boundaries with in them. Through qualitative arts based research I created art that involved the use of welding, metal cutting, grinding, and manipulating automobile parts. My experiences were documented through video, pictures, and journals of self-reflection. Meaning is portrayed through the juxtaposition of chosen materials, and my reflection upon feminine roles and boundaries in society through my artwork. Through my research I was able to examine possible reasons why fewer women than men are working in fields such as welding and automobile restoration/fabrication. According to the United States Department of Labor Women’s Bureau, only 5.5% of workers in welding and brazing are women, and only 1.2% of automotive service and technicians are women (United States Department of Labor, n.d.). I explored the gender boundaries in these two fields of work. The goal of my research is to help bridge the gender gap in these two areas.

Extent

62 pages

Local Identifiers

EthridgeARP2019

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

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