Tabitha Arnold uses punch needle embroidery and other methods to create vibrant wall hangings. She is inspired by the history of the labor movement, as well as her own direct experiences as a worker, organizer and artist coming of age during a wave of unionization and heightened class-consciousness. Taking inspiration from diverse art historical traditions including Eastern Orthodox icons, Mexican mural painting, and biblical narratives, she highlights income disparities and the exploitation of laborers. Her labor-intensive process and focus on labor relationships will serve as a springboard for a panel about the role of art in a late-stage capitalist economy and/or changing attitudes toward women's artistic labor during the past 50 years.

Artist’s Talk & Panel, January 25, 2024: Topics will be changing attitudes toward the labor or art making, the valuation of female or feminine labor, and/or the importance of festivals, biennials, etc. in shaping art discourse