Exhibition: Objects of Choice

Speculum, birth control pill, catheter, coat hanger… From contraceptive and abortion devices to tools for understanding the body, these objects lie at the heart of the major social transformation that is access to the freedom to make choices about one’s own body. Conceived to mark the 70th anniversary of Family Planning, this exhibition recounts seven decades of struggle and situates them within the broader historical context of the fight for sexual freedom. The objects—which visitors can see and touch—mark a sensitive and sensory journey that connects the past and present of major contemporary issues, such as the burden of contraception, access to abortion, sex education, the fight against gender-based and sexual violence, and medical controversies. These artifacts connect us to the everyday nature of practices that are in the process of being forgotten and to actions that remain part of daily life, reminding us just how much they shape—both yesterday and today—our political and intimate relationship with the body. This traveling exhibition, presented for the first time in Angers at the Hôtel des Pénitentes, is produced by AFéMuse, in partnership with the University of Angers and the City of Angers. It is the second preview exhibition for the Museum of Feminisms, following “Women Are in the Streets! Revolt, Subversion, Emancipation” (February 27–June 22, 2025) Scientific Curators: Chrystel Grosso, Pauline Mortas, Bibia Pavard, Laura Tatoueix General Curators: Christine Bard, Julie Verlaine