Matrimony — an exhibition by Josephine Mead

An exhibition considering queer matrimony, ritual and love

‘Matrimony’ will present an installation by Naarm-based visual-artist, writer and curator Josephine Mead in the Bishop’s Parlour at the Abbotsford Convent. The work will consist of an installation of paintings of the artist's bridal-bouquet, a sculpture, and an accompanying sound-score by BJ Morriszonkle and Nero Friktschn Feuerherdt. 'Matrimony' will be a deep consideration of the possibilities of queer love and will open up conversation around notions of love, ritual and commitment from the local community.

The exhibition will be accompanied with a “conversation-circle” where the public can gather to reflect on what matrimony and love mean, from different sexual and cultural perspectives. The work will activate the history of the site — originally underpinned by religion, and will consider how the presence of queer-voice can echo/counteract past histories of ritual.

The exhibition coincides with writing workshops on love facilitated by Josephine, for students at Sophia Mundi Steiner School. This continues a long-standing relationship between the Convent and the school.

Matrimony is supported by Abbotsford Convent, and the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria. This work was produced through additional support from City of Greater Dandenong.