The Museum of Contemporary Art of Montenegro, in cooperation with the Center for Women’s Rights, is issuing a public call to women who have survived violence to take part in the artwork “Arising” by world-renowned artist Yoko Ono.

“Arising” is a global installation first presented in 2013 at the Venice Biennale. In this work, Yoko Ono invites women from around the world to share their personal stories of violence they have endured – whether physical, emotional, or psychological. The installation consists of personal testimonies and, optionally, photographs of participants’ eyes. Through this piece, the artist constructs a collective testimony that carries a message of resistance, solidarity, and women’s empowerment, focusing on their voices – personal, truthful, and powerful.

Stories from women in Montenegro will become part of this work, weaving our experiences into a unique global testimony of solidarity and empowerment. In this way, they will contribute to an international network of women’s voices and to the universal message of the artwork. By combining local and global experiences, the work gains an added dimension – both intimate and universal – further emphasizing its artistic, social, and ethical significance.

THE CALL IS OPEN FROM MAY 5 TO JUNE 1, 2025

If you wish to participate, we invite you to submit the following between May 5 and June 1, 2025:

• Your personal testimony – it can be short or long, written in any way you feel is right. The format and length are entirely up to you.
• A photograph of the upper part of your face (your eyes) – only if you wish. Submitting a photo is not mandatory. If you choose to send one, a simple, unedited photo of your eyes is sufficient.

All submissions will be presented anonymously, with full protection of participants’ identities and in line with the highest ethical standards.

“Arising” will be featured as part of the exhibition “Unfinished” by internationally acclaimed artist Yoko Ono, taking place from June 19 to September 15, 2025, at Petrović Castle and the Perjanički dom in Podgorica.

Please send your submissions to: women.mne@gmail.com