TURLOCK NOW: Women's representation gets film focus

TURLOCK - Women’s representation in the media and the message it sends to the masses will be explored in the free presentation of the documentary "Miss Representation" Sunday at the Carnegie Arts Center.

The film features interviews with noted American female leaders and newsmakers – from Condoleezza Rice to Katie Couric – interweaved with stories from teen girls about how the media affects them. In particular, the documentary explores how the emphasis and importance placed on women's youth, weight, beauty and sexuality shapes our culture and hurts young girls.

The presentation is part of the Carnegie's Sunday Arts Lecture series and sponsored by the Turlock chapter of the American Association of University Women. The event will feature a short talk by Modesto-based therapist Signe Darpinian, who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders. Her talk will also focus on positive actions that women, young and old, can take to help fight societal pressures placed on them by the media. The screening will be followed by a signing of Darpinian's 2012 workbook "Knock Out Dieting: Creating Peace Between You, Your Body, and Your Food." Proceeds will go toward the Carnegie Arts Center.

The event is free and begins at 2 p.m. at the Carnegie Arts Center, 250 North Broadway, in Turlock.