I have started with a new elective course about gender, feminism and queerness in art and design practices at Minerva Art Academy, called Stories of Identity. I am excited about the number of second-and third-year students who signed up for the course, enjoying their engagement and energy. With a full class, we investigate artistic and activist practices, exhibitions, and (art) historical material that have addressed and explored identity issues. Case studies are drawn from different disciplines and crossovers, such as visual arts, design, performance, film, illustration and pop culture (tailored to the participants’ interests). In addition, we pay attention to the relationship between artistic expressions and political and social movements – with intersectionality as a vital understanding. Besides, we also delve into topics that students themselves propose to the content I offer as a teacher. While another part of the course consists of undertaking their own research project, which can be theoretical or visual in nature (and everything in between). Students do not need to have any prior knowledge or experience with the themes. What matters is that we learn together, increasing our awareness and understanding.

Images: Cindy Sherman, Lola Flash, Isa Genzken, Zanele Muholi.