Joanna Dudley

How much of life is determined by what you have been told is possible? What does it take to break free and forge your own path? In WE WILL SLAM YOU WITH OUR WINGS, Joanna Dudley presents a transformative narrative: six girls, ages eight to 16, challenge the tragic fates of women in operatic arias, such as Dido, Tosca, Madame Butterfly and Salome, turning them from victims to heroines.

The artist herself takes the role of the chieftan, encouraging the girls to take autonomy over their own voices. At the same time she represents the forces they must overcome; channeling notorious speeches of male dictators and leaders, such as Joseph Goebbels and Benito Mussolini, and transforming them into a feminist war cry.

These young girls are the leaders, the army, the chorus, the pack, the collective and the future voice. In this way, Dudley gives space to unheard voices, and challenges you to consider how your present is constructed for you. 

Joanna Dudley

Having collaborated extensively with William Kentridge for the past 10 years, Dudley's artistry has graced iconic spaces such as TATE Modern, Carnegie Hall, and the Metropolitan Opera. Her multifaceted talents as a director, performer, and singer converge in works that defy convention and challenge preconceived ideas.

Credits

The exhibition is curated by Marina Paulenka, Director of Exhibitions, Fotografiska Berlin