ABSTRACT
Bending the Rules: The Montreal Branch of
the Woman's Art Association of Canada, 1894-1900
Heather Victoria Haskins
1995
The first six years of the Montreal Branch of the
Woman's Art Association of Canada are examined in light of women's expected class and
gender roles in late nineteenth century Montreal society. The Branch's activities are
described, and compared to their aims. The many reasons why handicrafts were supported and
promoted are explored. A case study of the Exhibition of Arts and Handicrafts (October
22-November 3, 1900) is used to reveal this support and promotion in action. Attention is
drawn to the organization and display of the exhibition, and the role of the lender, as
they reflect contemporary social concerns. Thc Basketwork Section is discussed as it
relates to contemporary political and ethnographic concerns for Native Canadians. Despite
the appearance of conforming to the status quo, the Montreal Branch's actions belie an
ambivalence toward accepted standards of behaviour for women. In effect, they were able to
achieve many of their goals by bending the rules.
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