Images of rural women's lives

Steve Moyer/Daily Mail-- Thirty black-and-white photos document the lives of rural women in a special exhibit at Cottey College. The exhibition weaves together the power of image and word by featuring selections from oral history interviews conducted with the subjects of Cynthia Vagnetti's work. The 30 striking black-and-white photographs explore a diverse group of women and their relationship to the land. Their voices narrate a multifaceted view of work, family, and community. Strong opinions on many topics -- including farm work, childcare, and housework--dispel many misconceptions about women who work the land.

The photographic exhibition, "Voices of American Farm Women" in the PEO Gallery inside the Haidee and Allen Wild Center for the Arts at Cottey College, presents a contemporary perspective on women in agriculture.

Photographer Cynthia Vagnetti has documented women from across the United States whose farming techniques promote environmental responsibility, economic stability, and community well-being. Voices of American Farm Women is toured by ExhibitsUSA. The gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and later on the evenings of performances in the Center for the Arts. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

Steve Moyer/Daily Mail-- This photo features Nancy Vogelsberg-Busch, who is a fourth generation organic farmer who is proud to raise her children on a farm that uses no man-made chemicals.Nancy Vogelsberg-Busch is a fourth generation organic farmer who is proud to raise her children on a farm that uses no man-made chemicals.