Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Bumba Mulenga
Published on 2024-03-16 08:12:38
An exciting art exhibition called ‘I was Born a Girl’ is scheduled to open at the Alliance Française de Lusaka on March 18, 2024. This exhibition focuses on marginalized groups of women who are often excluded from societal and community dialogues.
The ‘I was born a girl’ art and poetry showcase is a project by Finnish artist Minna Pietarinen, aiming to raise awareness about women’s and girl’s rights around the world. The exhibition will run from March 19 to March 23, featuring an opening reception and panel discussion titled ‘silenced voices’.
Centered on the theme of equality, ‘I was born a girl’ uses poetry and art to shed light on human and women’s rights globally. Pietarinen’s works celebrate inspiring women from diverse cultures who have been at the forefront of the fight for women’s rights. Each painting also represents different sustainable development goals, adding a deeper layer of meaning to the art.
The panel discussion accompanying the exhibition seeks to amplify the voices of marginalized women who are often left out of important dialogues within society. By drawing inspiration from the ‘I was born a girl’ concept, the panel aims to bring attention to these overlooked groups and their unique perspectives.
One of the highlighted paintings in the exhibition is a portrait of Musonda Mumba, a Zambian environmentalist known for her work in water security and environmental issues. Currently serving as the Secretary-General of the Ramsar Convention of Wetlands, Mumba’s portrait serves as a powerful representation of women making a difference in their communities.
The ‘I was born a girl’ exhibition first debuted on Women’s Day 2023 in Mexico City, drawing an impressive 26,000 visitors in just a few months. It then traveled to Europe, premiering at the Nordic Business Forum in Helsinki in September 2023.
As the exhibition continues to make its rounds, it is now set to be hosted in South Africa, Mozambique, and Zambia, with support from the Finnish Embassies. Plans are also in place for the exhibition to travel to the Americas, Europe, and Asia, spreading its message of empowerment and equality to a global audience.
In conclusion, ‘I was born a girl’ is not just an art exhibition but a powerful statement about the importance of amplifying marginalized voices and advocating for women’s rights worldwide. Through art and poetry, Minna Pietarinen’s work serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience of women who have fought for equality, paving the way for future generations to continue the fight.
