Birds of a Feather collection

I created "Claudia" to acknowledge the trailblazing contributions of Claudia Goldin for advancing the worlds understanding of women's progress, participation and earnings in the workforce.  Her reseach and findings into the reasons for the gender gaps in these critical arenas have vas societal implications.  Claudia was awarded the 2024 Nobel prize in Economics.

Debra Aalsburg Smale

14"H x 13"W x 5"D

The body of work Debra refers to as “Birds of a Feather” is a collection she started while getting her MFA in the late 70’s. The collection’s work commemorates women: women of accomplishment, women in her family and friends. The pieces show gratitude to the women they represent, for their contributions, struggles, love and support. These creations have taken on many forms: metal and wood sculptures, paintings and most recently sculptural textile birds using repurposed materials.

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About “Birds of a Feather” from Karen Vander Werp - Grand Rapids, MI K LINN Interiors Grand Rapids, MI:

Debra always has a deliberate message behind her creative projects. I love her mission to acknowledge women of accomplishment in the form of birds. From fabric, shapes and fringe detail to beads and leg materials all are selected with relevance depicting the women they represent. These selections define their purpose, personalities and accomplishments.