Melanie Bonajo. The (m)other

The Kunstpalais Erlangen is developing a major solo exhibition on Melanie Bonajo (*1978). The queer filmmaker, physical therapist, cuddle workshop leader and animal rights activist presented her internationally acclaimed film “When the body says Yes” in the Dutch pavilion at the 59th Venice Biennale in 2022. Bonajo’s video works and photography explore the dynamics of relationships and interpersonal feelings in a world marked by consumption and alienation. Her immersive spatial installations are designed as site-specific environments that thematically and aesthetically translate her film worlds into exhibition spaces. Melanie Bonajo addresses controversies and uncomfortable topics with humour and disarming approachability.

In the exhibition “the (m)other” at the Kunstpalais, Melanie Bonajo takes issue with the patriarchal structures of colonialism and the destructive, inhumane mechanisms which exploit forests, animals, children, indigenous peoples and women. Her documentary film “Progress vs. the (m)other”, created especially for the exhibition, addresses the contradictory expectations that women face in a largely heteronormative, progress-oriented society. Bonajo’s works often focus on the stigmatisation, idealisation and degradation of women with (and without) children. Based on numerous conversations and video interviews, the film celebrates motherhood in all its facets and daily ups and downs. In this context, Bonajo explores alternative models of parenthood, as well as responsible, nurturing forms of coexistence in society and with nature.

Artistic director/curator: Amely Deiss (director of the Kunstpalais)
Artist: Melanie Bonajo
Participants: Theo Démans, Erika Sprey

Exhibition: Kunstpalais, Museum für zeitgenössische Kunst Erlangen, Erlangen: 28 Nov. 2024 – 2 Mar. 2025