As lavadeiras

: até que a água (se)pare

Abstract

The present project proposes a reflection on the Washerwoman, having as object of study the washerwomen of the Afurada community, which in the middle of the 21st century embodies a traditional figure and symbol of the first crafts dedicated to women. The washplaces represent spaces designed for women, built and thought up by men in Europe during the 19th century in response to the arising of the textile industry, within which women became the object of their own space. It forms a place for socialization and fraternization, turning into a symbol of a feminist space in the urban area, even in a period of silence and political absence. In the practical aspect of the project, the aim is to capture moments that portray the profession or simply the occupation of these women. And altogether (theory and practice) to create the profile of the washerwoman over time, reflecting the resilience of this activity that is still present today but could also represent the last generation of washerwomen. The project also associates these women with an image linked to strength and the water they use to cook, wash and care for. In conclusion, it is intended to represent the contemporary washerwoman, not only through fieldwork but also from the research of certain feminists who advocate the rewriting of history, in which women participate.

Date of Award	6 Feb 2023
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Sónia Neves (Supervisor)