FEMINIST ACTIVATES: Miami Art Week Edition - A Salon on Art and Activism
Photo by Kenyan Alexander
Miami witnessed a dynamic convergence of art and activism with "The Feminist Gaze: Art and Activism," an intimate panel discussion and salon hosted by FEMINIST. This engaging event explored the intersection of art and culture through a feminist lens, fostering dialogue ahead of Miami Art week 2023. The salon brought together a diverse audience, including artists, industry leaders, creatives, influencers, and activists, at Mezcalista in Moxy South Beach Miami.
During the night, FEMINIST Co-Founder Aisha Becker-Burrowes moderated a panel discussion posing questions to explore the transformative power of feminist perspectives and social justice movements in art as artists, curators, gallerists and activists. The panelists included Cierra Britton, Founder of the Cierra Britton Gallery, Samantha Vassor (Designer, Illustrator, Creative Director), Klara Vollstaedt (artist), Autumn Breon (Artist exhibiting during Miami Art Week at Prizm with Plan C Pills).
Set against the backdrop of speak-easy inspired Mezcalista at Moxy South Beach, each delved into their experiences, perspectives, and artistic journeys at the intersection of feminism, art, and activism. Key themes include the role of art in social change, challenges faced by women in the art world, and the crucial role curators and women in leadership play in creating spaces for women artists, particularly Black women and femmes of color.
During the discussion Cierra Britton spotlighted the curatorial perspective, emphasizing the role of curators and women in leadership positions in shaping the narrative and discourse around women's art, she described the act of shattering the ceiling by being one of the youngest gallerists in New York City at the age of 27. The conversation went on to explore the power dynamics in the art world and how artists and curators can be catalysts for change.
Artist, Autumn Breon dove into how her work is rooted in gender equality and access, describing her “care machine” an interactive piece to engage with the concept of care. A singular, pink vending machine is filled with objects that Black women requested in response to the following question: What items represent and provide care? The pink vending machine is fully stocked with condoms, tampons, pads, edge control, braiding hair, reproductive health resources, and books.
Gender equality in the art and creative industry was deeply discussed. Digital artist Klara Vollstaedt candidly addressed wage disparity, shedding light on the stark differences between her earnings and those of her cis-male counterparts. Samantha Vassor contributed an intersectional viewpoint to the conversation, recounting her own experiences of being designated as the designated "diverse artist" for the sake of diversity initiatives. While recognizing the importance of such initiatives, she also highlighted their potential limitations, particularly for people of color in the creative industry.
Through out the conversation the room was invited to join in and share thoughts and experiences. Attendees connected deeply with each other and the panelists, fostering a sense of shared space for community orientated dialogue to exchange ideas.
During the happy hour guests could choose from a bespoke menu of cocktails. Featuring Aplós a non-alcoholic spirt designed to relax the body and mind. Jeng, a mixologist crafted sparkling THC drink. A custom ginger mule with Belvedere Vodka and Rosé by Whispering Angel.
Photo by Kenyan Alexander
