The one, the only LIA SMARAGDA returns to Sub Rosa for the second installment of her project transplain. The first edition having premiered in our space in February 2020, we are proud to host the next phase of this important work. transplain foregrounds trans bodies as sites critical contestation—at once scrutinized by the gaze of cis-hetereopatriarchy, and also leveling their own resounding statements of carnal, political will. Entitled “tou ally to kangelo,” this phase of the project troubles the opportunistic claims laid upon trans and other queer bodies by mainstream institutions for purposes of their own gain. Against the cannibalism of the establishment, Smaragda exposes the weight of what is suffered when pain—in all its specificity at the margins of society—is gorged upon by those who translate the trauma of others in terms of profit.

Saturday’s performance is the first in a series of performances taking place every

Saturday until 18 June. Each performance is unique, prodding different aspects of this troubling phenomenon.

Crucial Information:

NO LATE ENTRANCE.

Doors open at 20:00.
Performance begins precisely at 21:30.
The performance is a deeply meditative act by the artist; late entrance will disrupt the flow of the work. Please plan accordingly.

CONTENT/TIGGER WARNINGS: This is a work of extreme performance. The artist will subject her body to harrowing physical states. Very much in the lineage of performance that defiantly sanctifies the queer body, the work may be difficult for certain audiences—especially those made uneasy by bodily fluids. Depictions of violence may well appear at the level of the artist’s flesh, and also in media projections. Furthermore: This performance addresses recent instances of violent loss that are deeply personal and painful for many in the queer community of Athens. Sub Rosa is proud to support this work, and as ever we are ready to discuss with you the politics at the heart of our curatorial values.

Please understand this and plan accordingly.