Sculpture in the Temple of Theseus: Feminist perspectives in focus

Sculpture in the Temple of Theseus: Feminist perspectives in focus

A remarkable sculpture by Shannon Alonzo will be on display in the Theseus Temple in Vienna's Volksgarten from May 16, 2025. With the title “Washerwoman” the work addresses central themes such as role models and collective memory. Alonzo, who was born in 1988, used beeswax from her homeland for her sculpture. This choice of material is not only aesthetic, but also has symbolic meaning: the wax changes, changes color and develops wrinkle-like cracks, which represent the invisibility of social structures.

Alonzo found inspiration for “Washerwoman” in an unnamed photo of a Jamaican woman taken around 1890 by J.W. Cleary was taken. During the creation of the sculpture, she had conversations about her origins and ancestors in her grandmother's house in Trinidad. These personal reflections flow into the work, which has no head and thus symbolizes many women who pursued similar activities.

Context and curatorial perspective

The exhibition is curator Hanin Hannouch and is part of the first edition of the WMW Contemporary format, which deals with topics such as neo-colonialism, global economics and identity. Claudia Banz, the new director of the format, emphasizes the importance of a feminist view of postcolonial discourse. In this context, expansions into urban space and digital formats are also planned in order to discuss the topic further.

Alonzo's work and accompanying themes fit into a larger historical context in which feminism has had a significant influence on the development of art practice. Historically, artists such as Rosa Bonheur and Berthe Morisot protested against the traditional role of women in the 19th century. In the 1960s, artists such as Carolee Schneemann and Judy Chicago challenged the underrepresentation of women in art.

Feminism and contemporary art

The feminist art movement has continued to evolve in the 21st century, with artists such as Tracey Emin and Cindy Sherman continuing the fight for women's rights in art. Feminist art not only addresses sexuality and reproduction, but also domestic work, which is often overlooked. These movements have helped promote greater diversity and inclusion in the art world.

Despite these advances, the art world remains challenging as women are often still underrepresented. Feminist art theorists criticize the existing biases in art historiography and call for a reassessment of the criteria for artistic excellence. Dismantling gender stereotypes and creating a more equitable art world requires ongoing commitment.

The “Washerwoman” exhibition can be viewed daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. until October 5, 2025, with free admission. With its deep thematic relevance and historical context, Shannon Alonzo's sculpture offers an important contribution to the current discussion about role models and social structures in art.