Masculinity is an extremely contested value in our time. We’re no longer clear exactly what it is, who it belongs to, what qualities are or should be associated with it. Some of us prefer not even to think about masculinity too much because it can so easily turn into an effort of trying to be something (conforming to a certain idea or image or role) rather than just being.
Masculinity is complex, ambiguous, ambivalent, one could say that it is in the course of destruction and that is not necessarily negative. Moreover, masculinity is not only one, there are many masculinities, many ways of embodying and communicating how one feels, loves, denigrates, worships, hates, believes, disbelieves and/or understands “masculinity” or masculinities.
There is an erotic component, certainly, but also political, social, aesthetic, economic, health as well as playful and pleasurable components.
Masculinities is a new festival to celebrate the diversity of masculinities on Gadigal land in 2025.
What are the new problems men face today? What can masculinity be outside the box? Beyond stereotypes, beyond even gender binary? How can masculinity not simply react to feminism, but enter into dialogues with it, even when it is not in agreement?
Above all, what is there to celebrate, to hold onto, what remains beautiful in masculinity?
The festival welcomes people of all genders, whoever has a stake and interest in masculinity/masculinities at this time.
Festival Director: Peter Banki, Ph.D
When? April 18-20, 11am-8pm
Where? Drill Hall, 1c New Beach Road, Rushcutters Bay
Investmentt? $249 (Super Early Bird until February 1st)
Full Program will be announced soon. Snap up a ticket now at the Super Early Bird Price.
