Open Call for Submissions in response to the work of Astra Blaug

The Feminist Library is looking for submissions by poets, writers and artists in response to the life work of feminist artist, activist and poet Astra Blaug (1927-2015), towards an event at the South London Gallery (SLG) on Wednesday 15 June, 7-9pm.

As part of the Southwark Poetry Festival the Feminist Library and the SLG are hosting an evening of readings and presentations by artists and writers who respond to themes explored in the photography, poetry and activism of Astra. The Feminist Library is looking for submissions of work (poetry, prose, audio or video) which explores the themes of: the personal is political, visibility/reflections or motherhood/inter generational experience.

Prior knowledge of Astra’s work is not essential – you can view a selection of works for reference here:  After Astra Source Material

The Personal is Political: This was a popular slogan during the Women’s Liberation Movement of the 1960s and 70s, a time when Consciousness Raising became widespread and powerful practice of the movement. CR groups encouraged women to meet together regularly and build trust, sharing stories and thoughts with the goal of allowing women to realise the political structures informing their day-to-day experiences and personal struggles, thus empowering them to change things. Through Astra’s work we see the intersections between activism, cultural production, personal responsibilities and relationships, and the creative potential of these repeated collisions.

Visibility/ Reflections: Several of Astra’s poems touch on the visibility of women, especially older women (Astra was a driving force in the Older Feminist Network). In her photography reflections, including her own reflection, recur as a visual motif. What is visible, and what is not visible in these photographs gives us pause for thought, and of course the artist’s own reflections pervade her work.

Motherhood/ Intergenerational Experience: Astra’s collection Back You Come Mother Dear (1986) dealt with her relationship to her own mother throughout her life, as well as reflecting on feelings towards her own children once she herself became a mother. As well as within filial relationships, links between different generations is a central tenet to the Feminist Library’s work. The Library’s collective of volunteers is made up of individuals from a wide range of age-groups, and it is very much within the Library’s ethos to explore and celebrate the potential of intergenerational collaboration.

Submissions should include a brief description on why you’re interested in taking part in the event and which themes you feel your work responds to. Please also attach examples of work which would be presented or examples of previous work which would give an indication of what you might like to present. Submissions are limited to no more than 15 minutes. If selected there is a modest fee for participating at the event.

Please send submissions to: astraexhibition@feministlibrary.co.uk no later than 14 May 2016.