Meoto Yunomi

MEOTO YUNOMI

Opening Reception @no_5_butchie_alley 12/2/23, 6-9 p.m.
Live Music w/ J Strings

Opening Reception @tsaphilly 12/14/23, 6-9 p.m.

A “yunomi” is a handle-less Japanese teacup used for daily tea drinking. The tradition of making has evolved over time and contemporary artists have expanded on the variety of styles and shapes, departing from the traditional footed, cylindrical style.

Artist/Curator Terri Saulin sent out invitations to a select group of artists during this 2023 Pride Month to honor our LGBTQA+ friends. Using “Meoto Yunomi ” as a vehicle to challenge heteronormative power dynamics, Artists were asked to create two cups that absolutely have to be together… or not.

“Meoto Yunomi” are often given as wedding gifts in Japan, the larger cup symbolizes the ‘husband’ and the smaller cup the ‘wife.’ Traditional partnering ideas are firmly rooted in misogyny and oppression, a system that denies power to women and overall devalues effeminacy or anything viewed as submissive, diminutive. Why not find value in powerlessness? Tradition is tricky. Sometimes the wife is taller than the husband, sometimes the Mx’s are the same size. Sometimes, one feels they must stand alone.

Why not decide to stick with love?

This exhibition will run simultaneously at No. 5 Butchie ALley and Tiger Strikes Asteroid PHL. Proceeds from workshops, tea/wine sales & IG auctions will benefit The Mazzoni Center and William Way.