M is for Menopause!

M is for Menopause, Baby! is a major group exhibition that uses art to raise awareness and challenge the myths, stereotypes, and stigma that surround the menopausal journey. Featuring more than 50 works from North Carolina artists— including vibrant paintings, works on paper, assemblage, and mixed media artwork — the exhibition celebrates the diversity and complexity of the menopausal experience.

By 2025, it’s estimated that 1.1 billion women will be experiencing menopause, or “The Change” as it is frequently called. Menopause is not a disease. Menopause is not a mental health condition. It is a natural part of the aging process when a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period. In the United States, the average age for menopause is 51. However, it can occur earlier in life. But what is menopause? What does it mean to be perimenopausal or postmenopausal? Too often, these normal life stages are spoken about negatively in hushed tones as if they’re something to be ashamed of or feared. Those with symptoms may be told it’s all in their mind and struggling can become normalized. The M is for Menopause, Baby! exhibition aims to help reframe the narrative around the subject of menopause. 

The exhibition is presented by Drinking Gourd Gallery in partnership with Rocky Mount Mills, Kiki Piper, and UNC Health Nash.

If you were unable to travel to Rocky Mount Mills for the in-person exhibition, you can view the exhibition virtually here.

Accompanied by a catalogue.