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Travail: The Disparities of Maternal Death Rates in the United States

Travail, meaning work of a painful or laborious nature, is also a term for childbirth and labor. The excruciating exertion of giving birth should result in a joyous outcome, yet for many in our nation, it does not. In the United States, Black women and childbearing people have a maternal mortality rate three to four times higher than White women and birthing people. This is one of the widest disparities in women’s health. This set of three paintings features Dr. Shalon Irving and Keonna Cannon, RN. A third abstract piece holds a startling hidden meaning that ties them together. This body of work explores the disparities of maternal mortality rate for Black women and birthing people in the United States while also honoring and celebrating the courage and strength of those who face the disparities and bring life into the world. This presentation will use the set of three paintings and these two women’s stories to humanize and make more tangible this staggeringly widespread issue.

Hannah Bell

My current artistic practice focuses on portraits and figurative work; which gives me the opportunity to explore the beauty, variety, and value of people in my community and beyond. I explore the power of face and form to connect the viewer with personal stories and larger social issues. At the heart of so much of my work is people. Humanity. From inequality and injustice that harms people and communities and that needs to be addressed, to the people that need to be spotlighted and celebrated. When that humanity is denied and brutalized we need to feel the outrage. When there is a perfect moment of joy from a sweet child or a precious pet, we need that to keep us human and keep us motivated. Our human experience is one of the most interesting and powerful things in the world. And we all experience a vastly different world. But each life and each experience is important.

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Risk Waiver & Photo Release

By participating in the ARTs + Change Virtual Conference, I acknowledge and assume responsibility for any inherent risks, including but not limited to technical issues (e.g., internet disruptions, data loss), privacy concerns (e.g., unauthorized sharing or recording), or physical injury (e.g., from movement-based workshops). I understand that the University of Rochester and its representatives are not liable unless due to gross negligence or willful misconduct. My participation is voluntary.

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