ON THE SCENE: Femme F(r)iction Exhibition Tour Hosted in New York’s Iconic Academy Mansion

Step into Femme F(r)iction, a groundbreaking exhibition celebrating the power and creativity of female artists…We had the privilege of chatting with Victoria Golembiovskaya, the President of C1760, to discuss the exhibit and its significance.

1. What does Femme F(r)iction mean to you?

Femme F(r)iction draws inspiration from the groundbreaking feminist exhibition Womanhouse, curated by Judy Chicago and Miriam Schapiro at a Victorian mansion in Hollywood in 1972. This early feminist showcase centered upon female empowerment, and what is very intriguing for me is that only women could see it on the first day. Similarly, Femme F(r)iction explores themes of identity, power, sexuality, and solidarity, albeit in a less radical manner. It took place within a historic mansion, continuing the tradition set by Womanhouse. 

The exhibition presented a hybrid format that challenges viewers by showcasing the works of female artists across diverse time periods and styles and blurring the boundaries between art and design. Ambitious in scope, Femme F(r)iction brought together 50 artists from around the world, each with unique backgrounds and stories that enrich the exhibition’s narrative. The exhibition created a platform for artistic exchange and collaboration across different stages of artistic careers by fostering dialogues among renowned artists, mid-career, and emerging talents. The exhibition encompassed both established figures like Cindy Sherman, Judy Chicago, Marlene Dumas, and Tamara de Lempicka, who have made indelible marks on art history, as well as bold newcomers such as Marcella Barceló, known for her subtle paintings, and Sophia-Yemisi Adeyemo, whose powerful works explore decolonial themes. One of the primary focuses of Femme F(r)iction was identity-based themes, addressing existential questions through art on philosophical and spiritual levels. For instance, Esther Mahlangu, a South African artist, draws inspiration from her Ndebele heritage, incorporating geometric patterns derived from Ndebele clothing and jewelry into her art.

Another significant aspect of the exhibition was the dialogue between the traditions of old masters and the innovative approaches of contemporary artists working with painting as a medium. Sophie Matisse pays homage to Diego Velázquez’s iconic 1656 painting Las Meninas in her artwork from 2001. Similarly, Maria Kreyn’s Radical Icon combines Old Master techniques with a contemporary sensibility, drawing inspiration from religious and altar motifs reminiscent of sacred depictions of saints. This interplay between historical influences and modern interpretations added depth to the exhibition.

2. As people walk through the gallery, what is one thing you want them to take away with them?

Housed within the prestigious Academy Mansion, a distinguished townhouse on the Upper East Side, the exhibition evoked a feeling of understated elegance. My aim was to imbue the space with a sense of luxurious domesticity, providing a comfortable environment for visitors to engage with the artworks. It was designed to evoke a feeling of empowerment and inspiration, allowing viewers to be captivated by the creativity and vision of female artists. Simultaneously, it offered a space for relaxation, inviting visitors to savor the beauty of the moment.

3. Showing Dalí’s masterwork for the first time ever in New York is extremely special, could you talk more about this?

Dali’s renowned artwork, Cosmic Madonna, made its debut exhibition in New York back in 1958. The 2023 occasion holds special significance as it marks a symbolic return of the painting to the city where it was originally created. Following its last public showing in 1966, the painting has remained in the same private collection for the past four decades.

Executed after Dali’s Surrealist period, Cosmic Madonna reflects the artist’s fascination with nuclear mysticism, symbolizing the convergence of spirituality and science. Dalí boldly proclaimed himself as “the first painter of the Atomic Age,” drawing inspiration from the iconic image of the Virgin Mary. Additionally, the painting has been examined by Dalí expert, Nicolas Descharnes. 

4. How has C1760 evolved as a gallery and where do you see it going post this celebration of female artists – what’s next for the consultancy?

C1760 is a project-driven, collaborative platform for modern and contemporary masters at the intersection of gallery and consultancy. We advise clients on collection building across periods within the primary and secondary markets and specialize in developing and producing museum-quality curatorial projects. Our strategic vision involves expanding our multidisciplinary approach, encompassing private sales, advisory services, and curatorial expertise. Our plans include organizing 1-2 significant exhibitions annually in the vibrant art scene of New York City. Additionally, we are committed to active participation in art fairs, ensuring our presence in the dynamic art market.

C1760 creates Femme F(r)fiction, a world where art becomes a catalyst for change. In this immersive exhibition, you will be able to embrace the power of creativity, challenge conventions, and celebrate the diverse voices of female artists. A truly transformative journey, inspired by the extraordinary artistry that unfolds.