Symbols of Fertility
David Bielander: Corn cob. Steel, brass, silver.
The “Lingam – 121 contemporary fertility symbols” exhibition aims to provide artistic alternatives to our present-day Western interpretation of the lingam and, in the process, to take a fresh look at this symbol’s original, sacred context. Until August 22 the exhibition which is curated by Ruudt Peters can be seen in Mons, Belgium.
The lingam is a wooden or stone object in the shape of a phallus, which represents life and fertility. In Hindu and Buddhist cultures, the lingam is worshipped and revered. It is not only a fertility symbol, but also stands for a primeval creative force, a force that is strongly linked to sexual energy. In Southeast Asia, reverence for life and religion are closely linked. Lingam worship takes place frequently and in public places. In contrast, in the West, the lingam is seen mainly as a symbol of lust and sex.
Frédéric Braham: Displayed. Lipstick, gold, plexiglass.
Udi Lagallina: Lingam et son yoni. Wood, gold, pearls, textile.
The exhibition curator, Ruudt Peters, is an artist and professor at the Ädellab Konstfack University College of Arts, Crafts and Design in Stockholm, and this event marks his departure as a teacher there. His fascination with the lingam inspired him to ask artists and designers to create their own fertility symbols.
Nedda El-Asmar: Adore. Glass, wood.
Modern Lingam by Ruudt Peters.
Sam Tho Duong: Malebow. Gold strap. All photos by Rob Versluys.
The contributors explored the subject through the lens of their own experiences, each producing a personal artistic statement about fertility. To emphasize the original, sacred context of this type of object, the exhibition Lingam – 121 contemporary fertility symbols will pair these modern-day fertility symbols with their historical predecessors.
Lingam – 121 symbols of fertility. 9 May–22 August 2010, Tuesday till Sunday 12am–6pm. World Crafts Council–Belgique Francophone, Site des Anciens Abattoirs, Rue de la Trouille, 17/02, 7000 Mons, Belgium. www.wcc-bf.org
