Norma Rae

Virginia Bullman and LaNelle Davis have done it again with the creation of a new work of art located in Carrboro.

This lady, who Audrey Townsend has named "Norma Rae," is a mill worker taking a break outside Carr Mill Mall, beside Townsend Bertram & Company Adventure Outfitters.

Audrey, who has known the sculptor for years, commissioned the piece to sit in the Townsend Bertram yard 2 years ago. Norma Rae was completed and moved to her current location on March 3, 2001.

Townsend Bertram & Company Adventure Outfitters was opened in 1988 in Carr Mill Mall. Like the name says, they specialize in outdoor activities equipment, with a large selection of backpacks, tents, sleeping bags, and nearly any other item you might need for your outdoor adventure.

FROM VIRGINIA BULLMAN:

The Millworker is the result of a convergence of influences.

LaNelle and I have had an ongoing conversation over several years about the lives of women at work. We are always looking for images and words describing them.

First, we found a book of photos called "Women At Work - 153 Photographs," by Lewis W. Hine. The pictures were taken from 1907-1938. In it were some riveting pictures of life in the mills.

Next, we heard about "The Weave Room," a book of poems by Michael Chitwood. We read it. That was when we knew we had to make this sculpture.

We don't know her name, but we know she has a life outside the mill. Her bone-wearing work in the mill is represented by the institutional green work apron. Her dream is represented by her yellow dress. She is looking out away from the mill, determined to survive.

The Weaver
by Michael Chitwood

Black warp, purple fill
or brides white through white,
she watches for seconds.

She watches for broken ends.
She adjusts the whip roller
and jacks the speed

She will have her break.
She will have her lunch,
her cigarette.

Black warp, purple fill
or brides white through white,
she will never have such dresses

or their need.

Many thanks to Audrey Townsend and Scott Bertram for the opportunity to do this.

Virginia Bullman