bring back love & creativity / if women ruled the world
SPEYERS, The Netherlands (2024)
As belief in the future diminishes, myths about the past come to dominate. Whether or not motivated by fear of globalization, the national past is glorified. More than once this patriotism has led to war. But every war is a harmful interruption of progress and prosperity and therefore a giant leap back in time. Since violence seems to be the monopoly of men, we need a more feminine take on the future.
The high heel pump is a reference to the dove of peace, a dove with an olive branch in its beak, the international symbol and personification of peace. Doves, typically domestic pigeons white in plumage are often associated with peace, freedom or love.
The pump is (mother of pearl) white which represents enlightenment and innocence. Real feathers have been used, a tribute to freedom. The olive branch of the dove is translated into the solid olive wood heel. A rising stiletto heel as if to distance itself from the muddy earth and its trenches. Pierced and lifeless, a tank hangs on the heel, pointed backwards, towards the past. It is the reckoning with macho behavior that is the basis of many conflicts.
In this way, a fashionable object becomes the symbol of hope, change and empowerment. The artwork depicts a world in which we no longer roll tanks into the past but face the future with elegance and style. Communities thrive when women are empowered to lead, innovate and rise.
Video made by Indy Snel, Jefferson van den Broek & GL