Ruth Patir‘s five-part video installation, “(M)otherland,” presented a poignant exploration of fertility, womanhood, and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Originally conceived for the Venice Biennale in April, the exhibit was closed in protest shortly after its opening, demanding a ceasefire and the release of hostages, a powerful statement amidst the escalating violence of the October 7 Hamas terror onslaught.
The work, which combines digitally animated Iron Age fertility goddesses with a deeply personal narrative of Patir’s own experiences with fertility treatment, resonated intensely with viewers. Featuring 3D animations of ancient female figurines, the videos provided a striking commentary on the pressures and anxieties surrounding state-funded IVF treatments within a male-dominated medical system.”(M)otherland” was later acquired by New York’s Jewish Museum, a testament to its artistic merit and social importance, and will premier in March at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. Patir’s primary motivation behind this powerful artwork was to amplify the pain and loss experienced by women, both Israeli and Palestinian, victims caught in the crossfire of conflict.
Created in response to the October 7th massacre, her newest video, “Keening,” utilizes the same figurines, enlarged and brought to life, alongside thousands of fragments usually housed in museum storage.The fragmented, mournful procession depicted in “Keening” evokes a haunting visceral depiction of grief and resonates deeply with the ongoing anguish of families separated by the hostage situation.
Patir’s decision to shutter the exhibit at the Venice Biennale, a calculated act of protest, delivered a powerful message capable of transcending artistic boundaries. This act of defiance against the backdrop of international shockwaves garnered widespread attention, prompting critical discourse and challenging the binary perceptions often characterizing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Now, “(M)otherland” shifts from a powerful act of protest to a preserved moment in time, ready to be experienced by a new audience at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.
Despite the artistic triumph, Patir remains apprehensive, anticipating judgement and criticism surrounding both her art and its politically charged context. For Patir, the intertwining of art and reality is inseparable, highlighting the complexities of being an Israeli artist navigating a volatile world.
How does Ruth Patir believe art can influence social change in politically charged contexts?
Interview with Ruth Patir: Balancing Art, Fertility, and the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict through “(M)otherland”
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you, Ruth Patir, for joining us today.your recent five-part video installation, “(M)otherland,” has generated meaningful attention.Could you please share what inspired you to create this deeply personal and politically charged piece?
Ruth patir (RP): Thank you for having me. ”(M)otherland” was conceived as a poignant exploration of fertility and womanhood against the backdrop of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.My own experiences with fertility treatment motivated much of the narrative. I wanted to highlight the anxiety surrounding state-funded IVF in a male-dominated medical system while paralleling the struggles of women caught in the crossfire of conflict.
TNE: Fascinating! You mentioned that the exhibit was closed in protest shortly after its opening at the Venice Biennale.What prompted that decision, and how do you believe it impacts the discourse surrounding your work?
RP: the decision to close the exhibit was a calculated act of protest against the escalating violence resulting from the October 7 Hamas attacks. It was vital for me to use my platform to demand a ceasefire and advocate for the release of hostages. This act helped garner international attention,challenging the binary perceptions associated with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and emphasizing the shared suffering of women on both sides.
TNE: The incorporation of digitally animated Iron Age fertility goddesses in your work is striking. How do you believe thes ancient figures resonate with contemporary issues of womanhood and fertility?
RP: The Iron Age fertility goddesses symbolize an age-old connection to motherhood and fertility,which transcends cultures and time periods. By combining these figures with my personal narrative, I aimed to create a dialog about the pressures women face regarding motherhood and reproductive rights today. This is especially relevant in a context where societal and political factors heavily influence personal choices.
TNE: Your new video, “Keening,” further examines themes of grief. Can you elaborate on how you used art to address the emotional weight of the ongoing conflict?
RP: “Keening” takes the motifs from “(M)otherland” and expands on them, illustrating a visceral depiction of grief through fragmented visuals. The metaphor of mourning is critical in this context, as it resonates with the pain families face during times of violence, especially with the ongoing hostage situation. Art becomes a medium through which we can process and express profound loss, making it accessible to a wider audience.
TNE: The transition of “(M)otherland” to the Tel Aviv Museum of Art raises questions about its legacy. what do you hope audiences will take away from this experience?
RP: My hope is that audiences will reflect on the intersecting realities of womanhood, art, and conflict. I want them to engage with the emotional narratives I present and consider the implications of ongoing violence not just in a political context but as a deeply human experience.
TNE: With “(M)otherland” having been acquired by New York’s Jewish Museum,how do you perceive the role of art in facilitating social change,especially in politically charged contexts?
RP: Art has the power to challenge perceptions and evoke emotions,fostering critical discussions that can lead to social change. In politically charged contexts, art can humanize experiences often detached from numbers and statistics, bridging connections between individuals and communities.It is essential to elevate these stories for a deeper understanding of the complexities involved.
TNE: lastly, any advice for aspiring artists looking to address similar themes in their work?
RP: I would advise them to stay true to their personal narratives while being mindful of the broader social implications. authenticity is vital; when artists share their unique perspectives, they can create powerful connections with audiences. It’s critically important to engage thoughtfully with the context of your work, as art can serve as an agent for change, especially in times of conflict.
TNE: Thank you, Ruth, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. Your work is undoubtedly a powerful commentary on fertility, womanhood, and the complexities of conflict.
RP: Thank you! I appreciate the possibility to discuss these important themes.