Xewka f'Qalbi, Xewka f'Sormi

VENUE

Rosa Kwir, Balzan, Malta

DATES

11 – 28 November 2023

Xewka f'Qalbi, Xewka f'Sormi (XQXS) was a collective exhibition marking ten years of the Women's Rights Foundation. Curated by Rachelle Bezzina and developed conceptually with the artist Emma Agius, it brought together twelve artists working in painting, installation, film, sound and performance, all responding to rape culture: the normalisation of sexual violence, the trauma it leaves, and the further harm done when institutions fail to listen.

The show filled the rooms of Rosa Kwir, an archive and gallery space, and ran alongside a programme of talks, curatorial tours, an open mic, performances and a closing panel discussion.

Disclaimer: This page refers to sexual violence and abuse.

CURATOR

Rachelle Bezzina

ARTISTS

Participating artists: Emma Agius, Isaac Bezzina, Silke Debandt, Nicole Debono, Nik Ebejer, Saaiqa, Claire Farrugia, Shanice Farrugia, Robin Cassar Fiott, Sam Vassallo, Francesca Zammit and X

Performances: Diellza Ilgner with Dino Torlaković; Charlene Galea with David Grech; Fatima, spoken word; Slut Drops (Rebecca Theuma and Sam Vassallo)

"Simmer" is a multi-sensory immersive installation, commissioned by the Women's Rights Foundation for the collective exhibition Xewka F'Qalbi Xewka F'Sormi, celebrating ten years of the Women's Rights Foundation.

Debono’s contribution to Xewka f’Qalbi Xewka F’Sormi, "Simmer", is a sensory odyssey, delving into the female experience, unearthing the consequences of years and decades of dismissing violating encounters, and exposing the deep-seated rage within rape culture. The installation invites viewers to immerse themselves in the palpable atmosphere of smouldering defiance and unwavering resilience. Upon entering, visitors encounter a sculpture of a woman submerged in water, symbolising the inner sanctum of her mind, encapsulating the duality of prolonged oppressive ordeals: the gradual heat build-up over time, and society's expectation that women "simmer down".

An ominous presence in the space casts a shadow on the persistent undercurrents in our society. "Simmer" acts as a shared sanctuary, confronting the harsh realities of deeply ingrained misogyny and the insidious nature of rape culture. It empowers individuals to stand against pervasive injustices, offering support to women who have endured such experiences as they boldly reclaim their voices and challenge suppression.