Queer Feminist Journeys with Va-Bene Fiatsi

For this episode, we are joined by Va-Bene Fiatsi, curator, mentor, artistic director, and self-described “artivist” based in Kumasi, Ghana. Also known as crazinisT artisT, Va-Bene tells us about her artistic investigation of gender stereotypes, identity politics and anti-black as well as anti-queer violence, and how she uses performance and installation to bring these themes into public institutions and spaces. We hear how Va-Bene’s experiences as a trans woman inform her practice and learn how she foregrounds her own body in her work to push institutional boundaries and confront prejudice and marginalization, while exploring her own vulnerability and emotions. With a portfolio of performances around the globe, Va-Bene discusses how she navigates different contexts and histories, and also comments on what it is like to work in a climate of intensifying LGBTQ+ violence and discrimination in Ghana, with an anti-LGBTQ+ bill currently making its way through Ghanaian parliament. “Feminisms in the Museum” is written and produced by Eliza Apperly and Alondra Meier. Sound design and editing by Benjamin Nash, Nora Mihle, Annelien Van Heymbeeck and Andreas König. Artwork by Diana Ejaita. Project curation by Michael Dieminger. Project management by Selina McKay. Our podcast is part of the 99 Questions programme at Stiftung Humboldt Forum im Berliner Schloss. For more information and show notes, visit https://www.humboldtforum.org/en/programm/digitales-angebot/digital-en/feminisms-in-the-museum-109860/.