Feminist artist and photographer Iris Brosch says that all women are Madonnas and intends to add representations of diverse women to public spaces. The Black Madonna project asks for a redefinition and reposition of females in our society. I couldn’t be prouder to be a part of it in a Tableau Vivant installation.
The Black Madonna in Einsiedeln represents a paradoxical reality: She attracts millions of admirers, believers and pilgrims who face her in devotion. But what about the admiration and validation of womanhood in society? While the Black Madonna is a spiritual success, especially women of colour are still vastly underrepresented in the political and cultural realm.
The Black Madonna project intends to show the power of womanhood. The diverse cast shows the fluidity in spiritual experience.
Black Madonnas are found worldwide, between 400 and 500 in European churches and shrines. A very famous one is the one in Einsiedeln, which has been the reason for controversial debates about why her skin was black.
Photographer: Iris Brosch
Assistance: Magaly Oliveira, Fabienne Schmid
Art Director: Stephane Blanc
Set Design: Barbara Staib, Peters Pfund, Stephane Blanc
Models: Sara Streule, Rita Pomorin, Silvia Gomes dos Santos,
Fabienne Schmid, Magaly Oliveira
Styling: Greta Schoop
Clothing: Maya Seyferth
