Miscouche artists Sophie Lafrance, left, and Sharon Doyle discuss one of their pieces being featured in "Women's Work(s)." This piece shows a woman as artist. Their work also appears at the Spring Street Farmer’s Market. Lori A. Mayne/Journal Pioneer

MISCOUCHE – A partner and child wave to the soldier heading for the plane.
The soldier has gun and kit, symbolizing the combat ahead.
The soldier also has a ponytail, symbolizing that war is also women’s work.
“It’s mommy saying goodbye,” said Sharon Doyle of the scene. “That’s the reality of today.”
Doyle and Sophie Lafrance of Miscouche created this fused glass piece to underline how women’s roles have evolved and now include women going off to combat.
“Reality” is one of two pieces they have featured in “Women’s Work(s).” The exhibit, which opens today in Charlottetown, gives their work exposure and helps raise funds for the Anderson House shelter.
“We said, wow, is that ever a good scenario,” Lafrance explained.
The exhibit will include pieces by 40 artists from across P.E.I. 
Laura DeGrande of Summerside created the watercolour “Picking Daisies” for the show. DeGrande chose to depict a woman at a certain stage when everything’s carefree. “I think you get bogged down with everything else in life, where as a little girl you don’t worry about anything,” she explained.
DeGrande liked the idea of a show that also supports a shelter. “It’s good coverage and I like who it’s helping.”
Sylvie Toupin of Mont-Carmel described it as a great cause.
“That was all I needed,” she said of participating.
Toupin has raised awareness about family violence in some of her previous artistic ventures.
She created a circular shawl for “Women’s Work(s).” That included spinning the yarn, designing the shawl and knitting it. The garment incorporates many symbols highlighting the roles of women. It was knit from the centre out, symbolizing the woman at the centre of her world; a swirling effect underlines the energy around her, to name a few examples.
Toupin says artists often get asked to donate for fundraisers. In this case, the art gets auctioned with half going to the shelter, half to the artist.
“Which is a nice way of giving a little bit back also to the artist,” Toupin said. 
Sandy Kowalik, artistic co-ordinator with the project, explains “Women’s Works(s)” aims to value women’s works and help support other women trying to make positive changes in their lives.
“We’re hoping that the art-buying public will be part of that whole circle of support.”
Women’s Work(s) runs at the Confederation Centre today through Sunday with auction Sunday afternoon.

Art promotion and fundraiser
•  July 7, 2 p.m. Opening
•  July 7-12 Show
•  July 12, 3 p.m. Reception, auction, raffle draw
•  Confederation Centre of the Arts, Charlottetown
•  Silent and live auctions for pieces.
•  Proceeds shared between artist and Anderson House.
•  See the art and learn more about the artists at http://womensworks.wordpress.com.