Tasmanian Museum Hangs Picasso in Women's Bathroom in Protest
June 28, 2024 in Arts & Culture by Julian Everett
In a bold move that has ignited controversy in the art world, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Tasmania has relocated three Picasso paintings to the women's restroom. This unusual decision comes as a direct response to a recent court ruling that deemed a women-only art installation discriminatory.
The installation in question, "Ladies Lounge" by artist Kirsha Kaechele, opened in 2020 as a space exclusively for women to enjoy champagne surrounded by art. Kaechele designed the work as a critical commentary on the historical exclusion of women from certain spaces throughout history.
However, the installation faced legal challenges when Jason Lau filed a discrimination complaint. The court subsequently ruled that the "Ladies Lounge" must be made accessible to men as well, giving the museum 28 days to comply with the decision.
In a striking act of protest, MONA and Kaechele chose to relocate the installation to the women's restroom, renaming it "Ladies Lounge" and including the Picasso works. This move not only preserves the essence of the original installation but also raises questions about gender-specific spaces in public venues.
The museum's decision has sparked intense debate on social media and in art circles. Supporters argue that it highlights the ongoing struggle for women's spaces and the complexities of addressing historical inequalities. Critics, however, contend that the move may trivialize both the court's decision and the artwork itself.
MONA, known for its provocative exhibitions, has once again pushed boundaries with this unconventional display. The incident raises important questions about the intersection of art, gender politics, and legal frameworks in public spaces.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this creative protest will impact future discussions on gender-specific art installations and the balance between artistic expression and anti-discrimination laws.
