Useful

Gabriela Mateescu explores a central theme in feminist theory regarding domestic labor in her video performance: the physical and emotional exhaustion of women caused by invisible yet essential tasks that contribute to social well-being, a result of what is termed “reproductive labor.” The concept of “reproductive labor,” as used by Silvia Federici, does not only refer to having and raising children but also to the care women provide for themselves and those around them. It represents a worldview instilled from an early age (caring for parents, spouses, children).

In 1975, Federici wrote the essay “Wages Against Housework”, where she called for salaries for domestic labor, arguing that unpaid domestic tasks represent systemic exploitation of women that sustains the capitalist economy without offering women recognition or compensation. This type of work seems to erase itself through daily repetition and becomes part of the “feminine repertoire.”

However, contemporary feminism in the context of voracious capitalism measures women’s success through workforce participation and financial independence, while also valuing their contribution to the harmony of a large traditional family. The “girl boss” generation returns home, where domestic labor awaits, and begins the “second shift” (a term coined by Arlie Hochschild). Gabriela Mateescu leaves her home, yet she remains tied to it by the countless domestic activities she has undertaken or still needs to complete that day. The sounds of these tasks disturb her entire day until she retreats back to bed, over and over again.

Through personal and familial experience, the artist’s performance explores the dynamics of intergenerational transmission of gender roles. The artist’s mother, who dedicated her life to domestic activities both in her household and in others’ (working as a nanny and caring for other families for 20 years), becomes a symbol of invisible labor. In this context, a connection can be made to the writings of Mariarosa Dalla Costa, who highlights that domestic labor is an essential factor in reproducing the labor force, serving as the economic engine of capitalism—albeit an invisible and undervalued one.

The artist’s mother continues to help with household chores in the home Gabriela shares with her partner. Despite working nearly seven days a week, Gabriela struggles to keep up with the doubled domestic workload. Her mother continues her role as a homemaker even in retirement, finding no other purpose in life and feeling fulfilled only through a life dedicated to caring for her family and “keeping the home.” Her value in both society and family is validated through her perceived “usefulness.”