Instituto Cervantes is pleased to present Génerx: del dicho al hecho, a multidisciplinary exhibition based on the ideas of gender representation within the Spanish language. This show is part of #Women, a monographic program that Instituto Cervantes has organized for the first term of 2018, featuring women contributions in different artistic disciplines, the uniqueness of their work, the topics they address, and the richness of their standpoints. “The illocutionary act is one in which in saying something, one is at the same time doing something.” 1 Génerx: del dicho al hecho is an exhibition that analyzes the problematics of gender representation in the Spanish language, highlighting the connotations that underlie most binary definitions that our language has assimilated throughout its history. Currently studied in linguistics, visual arts, history, and philosophy by authors such as Judith Butler and Paul B. Preciado, gender and its representation through language influence how we analyze the construction of individual and social identity. Génerx: del dicho al hecho presents works which explore the mechanism between speech and action. The exhibition serves as a starting point from which we may reflect on the peculiarities of our language in relation to gender. For example, Spanish nouns are gendered, which can create an imbalance that results in a discriminatory discourse. The written word becomes present in the exhibition, exploring the visual and literal implications of gender. The distinction between masculine and feminine words emphasizes the different roles the two genders have in society, from both historical and modern perspectives. The binary nature of such a classification within language leaves out other possibilities and ignores the realities of genderqueer and gender fluidity. Using the word as a mediator and common thread, this exhibition presents the work of different artists whose experiences with problematic words and texts suggest opportunities for linguistic revision. Artists visualize data, analyze grammatical and cultural roots, unveil the violence behind certain words, and propone alternatives for a more neutral language.
The exhibition features works by Oihana Cordero (Spain), Arisleyda Dilone (Dominican Republic), Camilo Godoy (Colombia), Garazi Lara Icaza (Spain), Liz Misterio (México), and Irene Mohedano (Spain). Curated by Noelia Lecue Francia
