Paper short abstract:

This article explores how feminist decolonial engagement can transform our understanding and use of public space. It argues that public spaces are often gendered and racialized, reflecting and perpetuating systems of oppression and exclusion.

Paper long abstract:

This article explores how feminist decolonial engagement can transform our understanding and use of public space. It argues that public spaces are often gendered and racialized, reflecting and perpetuating systems of oppression and exclusion. However, much public art reflects and perpetuates systems of oppression, exclusion, and erasure. In this article, we will explore how feminist decolonial engagement can transform our understanding and use of public art. Which is often gendered and radicalized, reflecting and perpetuating dominant narratives about who belongs in public space and who does not. For example, public art may celebrate the accomplishments of white men while ignoring the contributions of women and people of color. It may also depict women and people of color in stereotypical or exoticized ways, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and erasing their agency and humanity. Feminist decolonial engagement offers a way to challenge these systems of oppression and exclusion in public art. This approach involves questioning the dominant narratives that shape public art and foregrounding the perspectives and experiences of those who have been marginalized and excluded. One way to engage in feminist decolonial engagement with public art is to create new works that challenge dominant narratives and highlight alternative perspectives. For example, artists may create works that celebrate the accomplishments of women and people of color, or that explore the experiences of marginalized communities in public space. By challenging dominant narratives and highlighting alternative perspectives, we can create more inclusive and equitable public spaces that reflect the diversity of our communities.