In a celebration of global diversity and female resilience, the Gallery of Trakošćan Manor will host a captivating exhibition titled "Žene Nose Svijet" (Women Carry the World) on Saturday, September 23, 2023. The grand opening of this exhibition is scheduled for 1:00 PM.

Women Carry the World

Renowned American photographer Lekha Singh brings to Trakošćan's audience a striking collection of photographs capturing women from across the world shouldering their burdens. The images, taken in India, Tanzania, Morocco, the United States, Mongolia, China, Bhutan, Japan, Kenya, Rwanda, and Namibia, provide a glimpse into the harsh living conditions faced by women from different corners of the globe. Whether balancing children on their hips, carrying firewood, fetching water, transporting food, lugging stones, or bearing heaps of cotton, each woman carries a piece of the world. These photographs serve as poignant testimonials to women's roles in the demanding labor world, effectively debunking the prevalent stereotypes surrounding the so-called "weaker sex."

Reinforcing this narrative are historical photographs of women laboring under heavy loads, dating from the late 19th century to the first half of the 20th century. These photographs are drawn from the collections of Trakošćan Manor, the Museum of Arts and Crafts, and the Ethnographic Museum in Zagreb, forming an essential part of the accompanying exhibition.

Visitors to the exhibition will also be able to view a documentary film created through the collaboration of Trakošćan Castle, the Cultural and Artistic Society Josip Genc, and Tvornica Kadrova. The film, presented in the unique Bednjanski dialect, revives elements of the now-abandoned traditional culture, shedding light on the historical role of women in rural communities and their immense responsibilities in times past. Shot on location near Trakošćan, the film offers an authentic portrayal of the era.

As an integral part of the exhibition, an interesting panel discussion will be held on Monday, September 25, 2023, at 6:00 PM, focusing on anthropological reflections on women's labor. The primary objective of this panel is to continue the fight against discrimination and gender inequality. André Delpuech, the chief curator for heritage at the Centre Alexandre Koyré in Paris and the driving force behind Lekha Singh's European tour, will be among the panelists.

Idyllic Trakošćan Castle Setting

The castle's serene location on the shores of Lake Trakošćan, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, offers a tranquil and enchanting backdrop for this celebration of global diversity and female resilience. As visitors explore the captivating collection of photographs and historical images within the Gallery of Trakošćan Manor, they are not only immersed in the powerful narrative of women's strength but also transported to a place of natural beauty and historical significance, where the echoes of the past resonate with the promise of a more equitable future. The juxtaposition of this stunning castle and the profound stories of women from around the world create a unique and memorable experience for all who venture to this remarkable venue.

This thought-provoking exhibition has been made possible through the generous support of the Ministry of Culture and Media. It forms a vital component of the 2023 European Heritage Days: Living Heritage and will remain open to the public until December 31, 2023. "Žene Nose Svijet" serves as a powerful testament to the strength, resilience, and indomitable spirit of women worldwide while also highlighting the importance of challenging gender stereotypes and fostering gender equality.