Riot Grrrl on Display at OCMA

Alien She is an exhibition at the OCMA that covers the Riot
Grrrl feminist movement that started in the 90s

Right now the Orange County Museum of Art is showcasing the exhibition Alien She, which showcases the punk feminist movement Riot Grrrl that gained prominence in the 90s and continues today in many parts of the world.

Taking a walk through the exhibition, what comes to mind is the amount of detailed handwork that crafted the different forms of the movement's expression. Zines, posters, flyers were all self-published and the music, of course, was independent and loud.


From the OCMA website:

Formed in reaction to sexism, racism, and homophobia in the punk music scene and in the culture at large, Riot Grrrl emerged in the early 1990s and inspired many people around the world to pursue socially and politically progressive careers as artists, activists, authors, and educators. 
This self-organized network made up of teenagers and twenty-somethings reached one another through various platforms...emphasizing female and youth empowerment, collaborative organization, creative resistance, and DIY ethics, Riot Grrrl helped a new generation to become active feminists who created their own culture and communities to reflect their values and experiences.

Zines on display (Image by Annette Paquin)

Close up of zines on display 

A detailed sampling of flyers that adorn one wall
of the exhibit

The wall of flyers that are on display (image by Annette Paquin)

Excerpt: Because a safe space needs to be created for
girls where we can open our eyes and reach out to each
other without being threatened by this sexist society and
our day to day bullshit.

A sampling of flyers promoting Riot Grrrl activities and materials
(Image by Annette Paquin)

The exhibit continues through May, and it's a definite can't-miss! My tip - check it out on Friday, when admission is free.


Orange County Museum of Art
850 San Clemente Dr
Newport Beach, CA