The WomenStan Collective is an informal group of artists and social activists who have joined forces to deliver “initiatives for women, about women, and through women”. To quote their own words, “WomenStan has risen from a refusal to accept the social marginalisation of women from disadvantaged groups and of their voices”. This is why WomenStan activities trounce social stereotypes, counteract social stigmatisation, and empower the voices of “these amazing women we meet in penitentiary units, shelters for the homeless, and self-help homes”.

The Collective has a record of multiple and hugely successful theatrical initiatives, initiated in collaboration i.a. with inmates from the Krzywaniec penitentiary unit, and the women’s remand prison in Wrocław. Their stage performance of “Maria K.” “brought down the walls” of the way inmates are perceived by prison administration officials and persons employed in the penitentiary service; primarily, however, it provided the female inmates – co-creators of the performance – with a sense of agency and power.

Fund money will allow WomenStan to continue organising further shows of the most recent performance staged with female inmates of the penitentiary unit in Krzywaniec – “Viera Gran”; design new theatrical workshops attended by female inmates of penitentiary units, correctional institutions, and shelters for the homeless; and complete formalities (i.a. to establish an association).

Grant amount: PLN 8 800,00