Embodying Gender: How Mormon Material Culture Reflects And Shapes Gender Perceptions

Mormonism defines both gender and embodiment as fundamental. Beliefs about gender are embodied in the physical objects, resources, spaces, and structures which Mormons create and use to carry out the work and life of the Church. Mormon material culture not only reflects gender beliefs but also influences the ways in which gender is perceived. This panel will explore the many ways in which gender shapes and is shaped by the Church’s material culture. We will look at the relationship of gender to Mormon images and objects, meetings, social relationships and activities, food, weddings, funerals, and the temple.

Janice Allred, Vickie Eastman, Amelia Parkin, Margaret Toscano