Equal rights? Fun? Money? Peace? Independence? To be the perfect size?

In What women want we uncover the stories of how individual women, groups and organisations have all - at different times and in different places - struggled to make their dreams a reality, and how these hopes reflect or challenge the prevailing attitudes of the time.

The banners, books, photographs and posters on display give voice to the many choices and dilemmas women have faced in pursuing their desires. Our collections record a great diversity of women's opinions and experiences, and document the wide range of causes and campaigns that women have championed. The exhibition showcases this material and explores those issues that appear to be most persistent and unresolved in women's lives.

The display offers up a starting point for discussion. We invite you to reflect upon the issues it raises and contribute your thoughts on what it is that women want.