On a quest to enlighten the world about the diversity of women, renownedartist T.J. Dixon will be exhibiting her artistic works from March 19 toApril 6 in the University Union Gallery as part of the “Real WomenProject.”

Dixon’s bronze sculptures celebrate the beauty of women’s variousshapes, sizes, and ethnicities. This “Real Women Project” is aneducational effort to break the stereotypes that are portrayed in themedia. It is an attempt to help women reclaim their self-confidence andself-esteem.

Along with the sculptures, the Health Communication Research Institute,Inc., a non-profit organization, is presenting this project throughpoetry, music, photography, and video.

A national poll conducted in 1999 found that one in four overweightwomen identify images of women in the media as making them feel worseabout their bodies.

“These results are not academic; they translate into ill health,”President of Shape Up America! Barbara J. Moore said.

According to a body image survey by Psychology Today, 62 per cent ofgirls ages 13 to 19 reported being unhappy with their bodies.

“In our culture, idealized and unattainable body images of womenundermine self-esteem and make healthful changes less likely,” Mooresaid.

The Real Women project was created by Donna Brooks, M.D., Cathy Conheim,L.C.S.W., and Barbara Levy, M.D. They are professionals in the fields ofobstetrics, gynecology, physical therapy and psychotherapy. They allshare the belief of making positive change in the way people seethemselves.

The sculptures will be displayed from 10:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., Mondaythrough Friday, as well as from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. ,Wednesday andThursday. to 8 p.m.

The Gallery is located in the second floor of the University Union atCSUS. An open reception will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., on Thurs.,March 22. For more information about the Real Women Project, call (916)974-8686.