This exhibition delves into the complex and deeply personal relationship between individuals and their bodies, emphasizing the fundamental right to autonomy and self-determination about the choices they make regarding it.
This principle recognizes that each person has the right to make decisions about their body without external interference or judgment. It encompasses a wide range of personal choices, including but not limited to reproductive health, medical procedures, physical appearance, and lifestyle choices.
When it comes to our bodies and relationships, our freest conversations often happen in our heads; we keep these thoughts secret; why? Perhaps it’s because what we feel we can say openly is defined by the society we live in.
These social norms are controlled by our governments, our communities, and even our families.
When we challenge those norms, we feel guilty – embarrassed. We fear being stigmatized, even jailed. And because of this, we keep silent.
In a world where societal expectations, cultural norms, and external pressures often encroach upon our personal choices, asserting control over our bodies becomes an act of empowerment and resistance.
Through a carefully curated selection of artworks, I invite you to embark on a journey that celebrates the diverse expressions of autonomy and the multiplicity of decisions that define our life.
You will encounter diverse perspectives and narratives, each presenting unique insights into the complexities of bodily autonomy.
The works on display delve into themes such as physical integrity, reproductive rights, gender identity, bodily modifications, consent, and the intersectional nature of decision-making processes.
Artworks that challenge the societal norms imposed on bodies, pushing the boundaries of traditional notions of beauty, gender, and sexuality.
Others examine the resilience and agency of individuals in the face of systemic barriers and discriminatory practices, shining a light on the power of self-determination.
Ultimately, the exhibition empowers individuals to take ownership of their bodies and make choices that align with their own values, beliefs, and well-being.
It encourages respect for bodily autonomy and reinforces the importance of self-determination in personal decision-making processes.
I hope that will inspire introspection, spark conversations, and catalyze change.
Ariel Lavian
Curator
