The LACMA presents the "Women Defining Women" exhibition, a display featuring 75 pieces by female artists born or living in Islamic societies.
The exhibit showcases 42 women artists, including Shadi Ghadirian, Almagul Menlibayeva, and actress Iman Vellani commissioned by Rania Matar. The art pieces aim to redefine and empower women by challenging societal stereotypes through self-expression. Each medium presents a compelling story that seeks to capture the experiences generations of women have faced in various communities.
Located in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, half of LACMA's Art of the Middle East Contemporary Collection is made up of work by female creators. Artists like Menlibayeva illustrate their art through clothing and fabric, while Ghadirian’s work concerns itself with the role of women in Iran.
Ghadirian comments on the traditional role women take as homemakers and her issues with dress, challenging traditional garments through her "Be Colorful" series, where she poses models in hijabs of colorful hues. Similarly, Menlibayeva depicts her experience through applied arts, pulling inspiration from Kazakh Republican Guard and displaying a partially clad uniform for her "Homeland Guard" piece.
"The depth of our collection allows us to bring new narratives and perspectives to the fore, as seen in Women Defining Women," said Michael Govan, LACMA CEO and Wallis Annenberg Director. "We are excited to share this exhibition with audiences in Los Angeles and beyond."
The "Women Defining Women" exhibit is open from April 23, 2023, until September 24, 2023. Exclusive events for members and film screenings will occur on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays at the same location.
