It's easy to look at historical sites like Mare Island and see only the grand narratives – the naval might, the strategic importance. But what truly captivates me, and what artist JeanCherie's latest exhibit so brilliantly brings to the forefront, are the often-unseen stories of the individuals who powered these engines of history. Specifically, this exhibition shines a much-needed spotlight on the thousands of women whose contributions to Mare Island, particularly during wartime, have been largely relegated to the footnotes of history.
The Unsung Architects of War Efforts
Personally, I think it's a profound disservice when the immense efforts of women during pivotal historical moments are overshadowed. JeanCherie's work, particularly her centerpiece sculpture "Wendy the Welder," is a powerful testament to this. Inspired by the over 11,000 women who built ships on Mare Island during World War II, "Wendy the Welder" isn't just a statue; it's a reclamation of narrative. What makes this particularly fascinating is the detail about the Nereus, a submarine tender, being christened by women because they were its primary builders. This single act speaks volumes about a shift in societal roles and a recognition of female capability that was, at the time, revolutionary. It’s a stark reminder that history is not just made by generals and politicians, but by the hands that toiled to build the very tools of conflict and progress.
Beyond the Sculpture: A Tapestry of Memories
What I find especially compelling is how JeanCherie is weaving a broader community narrative around her art. The exhibit isn't just about "Wendy the Welder"; it's a rich tapestry that includes other works like "The White Mare and the Tule Elk" and "Mare of the Isle," alongside a wall of testimonials. These personal accounts, like that of Brendan Riley who worked on the ferryboats, or Sharon McGriff Payne sharing her mother Bernice's story as a forklift driver, are the heart of the exhibit. What many people don't realize is how these individual stories, when brought together, create a powerful collective memory. They highlight not just the work women did, but the societal barriers they had to overcome, like Bernice’s husband’s initial skepticism about her driving a forklift. These anecdotes underscore the incredible resilience and quiet determination that defined a generation.
A Call to Remember and Reclaim
From my perspective, the aspiration to transform the clay maquette of "Wendy the Welder" into a 10-foot-tall bronze sculpture is more than just an artistic ambition; it's a mission. It’s about creating a lasting monument to these women, ensuring their legacy is not forgotten. The exhibit serves as a crucial launching point for community engagement, a call to action to support this vision. It raises a deeper question: how do we ensure that the contributions of all individuals, especially those from marginalized groups, are not lost to time? This exhibit, and JeanCherie’s dedication, offers a powerful model for how art can be a catalyst for historical preservation and a platform for social recognition. It’s a beautiful reminder that the history we are living is just as important as the history we read about, and there's a profound need to acknowledge and celebrate it.
If you take a step back and think about it, the Mare Island Art Studios itself embodies this spirit of transformation and remembrance. Many visitors discover the studios for the first time, only to realize they have a personal connection to the very buildings that now house this vibrant artistic community. This exhibit, running every Sunday in June, is an open invitation to connect with local history and honor the indelible mark women have left on our collective past. It’s an opportunity to not just see art, but to feel the echoes of history and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
