Rolloff uses a variety of techniques and mediums to draw in an audience. With this piece, she used an electric sign to highlight the theme.

NEW ULM — “Feminist Theory” is the title and the topic of the latest art exhibit at The Grand Center for Arts and Culture.

The exhibit features 13 pieces from artist Megan Rolloff on the subject of feminism. In her artist statement, Rolloff opened with the dictionary definition of feminism: “the advocacy of women’s rights based on the equality of the sexes.”

Rolloff said she feels feminism is a fairly universal idea.

“Equality is something most women want — and some men,” she said.

The challenge is making feminism accessible to everyone. Rolloff’s goal is not simply to define feminism but to dispel the myths.

Rolloff’s artist statement says, “Feminists don’t look, walk, talk, fight, or demonstrate in any one way. There is no initiation ceremony or club to pledge to. We come in all shapes, sizes, colors, ages, gender identifications, religions, and fashion persuasions. The only common thread necessary is the belief that women deserve to be treated as equals to men in all aspects of life and society. That’s it. If you share this belief, then you are a feminist.”

The pieces in her collection feature mixed medium work that uses collage techniques. Rolloff said her work leans to collage as it mimics the look of magazines. Some of the pieces use images taken from magazines in different eras.

“Print media is the place where women have been shown how they should look,” Rolloff said. The technique also creates an element of humor. This approach helps bring in an audience to engage in the work.

Many of the techniques featured in the pieces, such as embroidery, sewing, batik block printing, and quilting, are traditional “women’s work”. Rolloff used these techniques in a non-traditional manner to hopefully change, or expand, the narrative.

The “Feminist Theory” exhibit is on display in the 4 Pillars Gallery at the Grand through Saturday, Aug. 15. Gallery Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.