Women to shine at ACMI

THE Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) and curator Bethan Johnson are paying tribute to the women of screen as part of Melbourne’s Winter Masterpieces series with their exhibition ‘Goddess: Power, Glamour, Rebellion’ (Goddess).

Now on display at ACMI in Melbourne, Goddess features never before seen costumes, cinematic and interactive experiences and large-scale projections that unveil, examine and celebrate the changing representations of femininity through the history of film.

 

From the icons of the silent era to classic Hollywood heroines, to cinema’s memorable female villains, Goddess is said to provide a powerful portrait of on-screen statements and gender redefining moments.

With more than 150 features including some of the props and outfits from popular films like Thelma & Louise (1991) and Michelle Yeoh’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), the exhibition provides attendees with a fresh perspective on some of cinema’s memorable moments.

 

Minister for Creative Industries, Steve Dimopoulous said the government have been thrilled to be supporting the event as part of their Melbourne’s Winter Masterpieces series.

“We’re backing another world premiere, Australian-exclusive for Melbourne, with ACMI’s latest exhibition Goddess to celebrate game-changing women of the screen.

“Winter in Victoria already brings a spectacular offering of events and activities, with this latest addition drawing more visitors to discover everything there is to love about Melbourne.”

 

To add to the stellar line-up of exhibition highlights, ACMI are also running a series of late-night talks, workshops, film screenings and live music.

‘Goddess Nights’ on July 27 will see musicians including DJ Kalyani, Komang and DJ Mothafunk take to the stage, while towards the event of the exhibition period, DJ Brown Suga Princess, Claddy, GLO and C.FRIM B2B Mirasai will perform on September 28.

 

A new restoration of Thelma & Louise, starring Goddess ambassador Geena Davis, as well as curated exhibition tours and school holiday drop-in workshops have also been added to the festival lineup.

ACMI Director of Experience and Engagement, Dr Britt Romstad said the winter program aimed to “elevate the voices of Australia’s many goddesses.”

“We hope audiences and artists alike revel in the shared experiences of live music, performance, discussion and debate, whilst surrounded by the goddesses in the exhibition who fought for these freedoms.”

“ACMI’s exhibition honours their influence and daring, and explores how they have transformed the face and expectations of on-screen femininity for audiences, time and time again.”

Free tickets are available for children aged under 16.

The exhibition closes on October 1 is open 10am to 5pm daily.

For more information and for tickets, head to www.acmi.net.au/whats-on/goddess/