Whispers of Resistance

This exhibition critically examines the realities of Chinese women negotiating societal expectations and individual autonomy within a rapidly transforming socio-cultural landscape. Featuring four artists—Liu Xi, Anny Peng, Zhou Wenjing, and Cai Yaling—Whispers of Resistance examines the complexities of womanhood, motherhood, and intergenerational relationships, revealing both the constraints and courageous defiance embedded within these artists’ experiences. 

Through a range of mediums including poignant photography, intimate installations, provocative performance documentation, and video works, these artists challenge the monolithic representation of Chinese womanhood. They delve into themes of memory, intimacy, and sacrifice, offering critical perspectives on the enduring impact of social conditioning and the ongoing struggle for self-determination. The artists engage with the complexities of intergenerational relationships, exploring the transmission of familial roles and expectations, and the ongoing negotiation of individual desires within the context of collective responsibility. Liu Xi transforms her childhood experiences into a tool against social stigma, empowering women to shed repression. Anny Peng uses satire to highlight women’s sacrifices within the family. Zhou Wenjing’s work sparked a movement to address women’s reproductive health issues. Cai Yaling celebrates maternal qualities while lamenting the selfless dedication often expected of mothers. 

Whispers of Resistance invites audiences to engage with the multifaceted experiences of Chinese women, seeking to foster empathy and understanding. By highlighting the voices and experiences of these artists, Whispers of Resistance aims to spark dialogue and inspire a deeper appreciation for the complexities of womanhood in contemporary China. 

This exhibition is produced as part of the requirements for the MVS degree in Curatorial Studies at the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design, University of Toronto.