History has traditionally been written by men about men for men, Bacchus Marsh artist Ri Van Veen says. “Even the word reads ‘his story’ and I want to change that.”
The ceramic sculptor is on a mission to pay homage to the hundreds of women who shaped history, by highlighting and honouring the sacrifices women have made through the years.
“I want to celebrate who we are, our strengths and resilience,” Van Veen says. So she started her ‘Marching Women’ project – sculptures of female bodies that are then exhibited at galleries.
She’s now bringing the project to Bacchus Marsh in a bid to raise awareness about, and money for, domestic violence services.
She will be hosting 90-minute workshops where participants create two ‘marching women’, one to keep and one to donate for sale in an exhibition titled Rise Up at the Bacchus Marsh Arts Council Gallery, on Saturday, February 18.
“Changing a culture of violence starts by creating a culture of wellbeing, and I feel like this does do that,” Van Veen says.
“Doing something that’s very grounding allows people to reflect about domestic violence and women’s roles in society.”
Participants will be required to attend two workshops, at $50 each or $30 for concession cardholders.
Details: 0439 353 359 or email ri.v.creations@gmail.com
