Still from Maintenance Artist (2025), by Toby Perl Freilich.
Still from Maintenance Artist (2025), by Toby Perl Freilich.
Maintenance Artist
2:30 pm–4:00 pm
Directed by Toby Perl Freilich (US, 2025, 90 min.). English and Japanese with English subtitles. New England Premiere.
This vibrant portrait chronicles the life and work of trailblazing artist Mierle Laderman Ukeles, the original artist-in-residence at the New York City Sanitation Department. Believing that acts of routine maintenance—diaper changing, trash collection, environmental care—could be framed as art, Ukeles transformed the concept of public art in radical ways.
Drawing from never-before-seen archival footage, Maintenance Artist offers a deeply moving meditation on care, labor, and visibility during the social and artistic upheavals of the last fifty years.
Followed by a conversation with Director Toby Perl Frielich, moderated by Betsy More, Director of Programs at Jewish Women’s Archive.
Wheelchair accessible
Ticket Information
To order tickets by phone, call 1-800-440-6975 ($6 processing fee applies); to order in person, visit any MFA ticket desk.
Bag Checks
All bags are subject to inspection by Museum staff. Backpacks, large bags, all liquids including hand sanitizer and sunscreen, and outside food or drink are not permitted. Exceptions are made for medical or religious needs. All bags are strongly discouraged, and any bags larger than 11” x 15” must be checked in the Coat Room upon entry. Read our full bag check policy.