Safe Spaces International is an exhibition highlighting deeply personal stories of women who have survived domestic violence—both physical and psychological. Art Connect Society (ACS) offers a haven for art that aims not only to raise painful issues but to create a space for healing, solidarity, and hope. Each work on display carries a vital message: you are not alone.
The feminist movement that gave birth to collective and individual efforts for women's rights fought against the silence surrounding women's experiences of violence for centuries with significant impact. Since 1990, the Czech Republic has implemented significant legal reforms, including the Anti-Discrimination Act (2009) and revisions to the Criminal Code (2010) that strengthen protections against domestic violence, as well as the establishment of specialized courts and support services for victims. These changes reflect the country’s commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing violence against women.
Despite these advances, there is still much work to be done. In July 2023, the Czech Republic's Chamber of Deputies voted against ratifying the Istanbul Convention, a significant treaty aimed at preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence. The failure to ratify this convention stunted efforts to enhance legal protections and support for women facing violence. Violence against women, within families and within relationships, has long been downplayed and marginalized.
Safe spaces have become a key concept within our movement — a place where women can talk about their experiences without fear of condemnation. Silence is not the solution; with a collective voice, WE can move forward.
A binding element of our efforts, the 100 WOMEN project symbolizes our community of women, mothers, and caregivers. Our installation, a collective protest against the often hidden experiences, invites you to be present and share your story. While the candlelight memorial honors both the victims of domestic violence and the parts of ourselves we wish to regain, it serves as a reminder of our journey toward a more peaceful and fulfilled life. Each light an eye-opener, reminding us that connecting with these painful truths doesn’t mean you’re alone; rather, coming together can foster strength in solidarity and empower us to create meaningful change in our lives.
SAFE SPACES interactive exhibits lead the way for others to open, share, connect and transform the way we move through the world. Each artwork aims to create a sanctuary—a place where trauma can be transformed into strength and where every woman can feel safe. In works by selected international artists—art becomes a tool for healing, a place where what we experience, believe, and know is shared.
Platforms of support are vital, not only through art but also practical help. The ROSA CENTER FOR WOMEN, to which the proceeds from the sale of the works will be donated, was established in 1993. Rosa has been providing essential services to women experiencing abuse or violence within their families for over three decades through comprehensive social services tailored to address the complex needs of women in distress, including a counseling center, crisis center, and shelter with a confidential address.
The SAFE SPACES exhibition is not only an artistic presentation but also an act of solidarity that reminds us that all women have the right to be safe—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and inspire hope for a better future.
FEATURING
Ellen Burgin (USA), Ellie Shipman (UK), Sandra Carvajal (DE/CZ), Renee Kuharchuk (USA), Cecile Filipe (FR/PT), Andrea Ehret (SK/CZ), Valentine Svihalek (USA/BE), Isadora Stowe (USA), Paulina Ree (NO/EC), Lucie Svoboda (CZ), Laura Hanganu (IT/ROU), Oleksandra Yelnik (UA), Elishabeth Handelsby (NO), Nicol Francis Hendruk (USA/CZ), Helena Lněničková (CZ), Sofia Bejblíková (SK/CZ), Montserrat Serra Nonell (ES), Yvonne Vácha-Mane (CZ/SN), Randi Matushevitz (USA), Hana Nemecková (CZ), Klára Šiška (CZ), Lenka Daviesova (CZ/UK), Lenka Kozlikova (CZ), Klára Langrová (CZ), Kristi Lei (USA), Jana Drdácká (CZ)
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