March 20, 2024
By Jasmine Chen Qu
Green Snake: Women-centred Ecologies is an art exhibition at Tai Kwun Contemporary Art Museum, going on from 15th February to 1st April this year. It showcases over sixty pieces of art, ranging from diverse stories and worldviews around women, and brings together over thirty artists and art institutions from twenty different nations. Its objectives are to investigate the historical context of locations that have destroyed nature and to highlight marginalized or suppressed knowledge systems.
The name of the exhibition “Green Snake” comes from the snake sisters White Snake and Green Snake in the well-known ancient Chinese legend “The Legend of White Snake”, which highlights female power, sisterhood and gender fluidity. It also refers to mythological snake-shaped figures from different cultures around the world. It has the ability to shed, renew, change and revive. On the other hand, the snake’s meandering curves are like a river flowing through the earth, expressing the flowing vitality. “Green Snake” as the name introduces the viewers to the theme of the exhibition — ecofeminism.
Ecofeminism is a combination of feminism and political ecology. Gender theory is used by ecofeminists to examine how humans and the natural environment interact. A feminist interpretation of green politics, based on ecofeminist theory, advocates for a cooperative, egalitarian society without a single dominant faction.
At its core, ecofeminism recognizes the parallels between the exploitation and domination of nature and the subjugation and marginalization of women. It argues that the root causes of both issues lie in the same systems of power and domination. Ecofeminists believe that the patriarchal mindset, which values domination, control, and exploitation, is responsible for the degradation of both women and the environment.
The need for a more holistic and sustainable approach to social and environmental issues is emphasized by ecofeminism. It advocates for the recognition of the inherent value and interconnectedness of all living beings and ecosystems. Ecofeminists argue that by embracing a more equitable and balanced relationship with nature, we can also achieve gender equality and social justice.
One of the key concepts within achieving a healthier relationship with nature is the idea of care and nurturing. Ecofeminists argue that women, historically associated with nurturing and caretaking roles, have a unique perspective on the importance of caring for the environment. They believe that by valuing and prioritizing care, empathy, and interconnectedness, we can develop more sustainable and equitable ways of living.
Ecofeminism also critiques the dominant economic and development models that prioritize profit and growth over environmental and social well-being. It calls for a shift towards more sustainable and localized economies that prioritize the needs of communities and the environment. Additionally, ecofeminism advocates for the inclusion and empowerment of women in decision-making processes, recognizing their unique perspectives and experiences in shaping sustainable and just policies.
The idea of ecofeminism is conveyed through the artworks exhibited in a creative and vivid way. For instance, Colombian artist Carolina Caceydo’s hanging sculptures “Cosmotarrayas” symbolize the relationship between people, rivers, traditions and cultures.
“This exhibition has been an eye-opening and transformative experience for me. It has deepened my understanding of the complex relationship between gender, ecology, and social justice,” said Jennie Lau, a 24-year-old primary school staff member.
“I hope that more people have the opportunity to visit this exhibition and engage in conversations about ecofeminism, as it offers a pathway towards a more equitable and environmentally conscious future,” the young woman added.
Grace Yu, a 17-year-old high school student has similar thoughts with Lau: “I found the exhibition at Tai Kwun to be incredibly thought-provoking and inspiring as it offers a powerful and critical perspective on the interconnected issues of gender inequality and environmental degradation, and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in exploring these issues further.”
Green Snake: women-centred ecologies offers a critical lens through which we can analyze and address the interconnected issues of gender inequality and environmental degradation. By challenging patriarchal systems and embracing values of care, empathy, and sustainability, ecofeminism offers a pathway towards a more equitable and environmentally conscious future.
The exhibition is to be closed soon on 1st April 2024. Take your chance to view the exceptional artworks that will inspire you with ecofeminism.
Reported by Jasmine Chen Qu
Edited by Micol Stano and Jimin Park