30/09/2013 - “A graffiti symbol of feminism” by the Russian artist collective will promote the Swedish showcase (January 24-February 3), which focuses on Russian contemporary cinema

During last week’s Göteborg Book Fair (September 26-29) the Göteborg International Film Festival unveiled the poster for next year’s showcase – “a graffiti symbol of feminism” by Russian artist collective, Pussy Riot (photo). The festival takes place between January 24-February 3.

“We have chosen Pussy Riot as the poster artist for directing the spotlight on Russian film, but also to take a clear position for filmmakers’ working conditions. It is a crucial issue for the future of the entire global community for freedom of speech and human rights to be respected everywhere, for everyone,” said the festival’s artistic director, Marit Kapla.

Operating in Moscow since 2011, the feminist punk rock protest group staged a performance earlier this year (February 21) at Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Savour, which was turned into a music video, Punk Prayer - Mother of God, Chase Putin Away!.

The group declared their protest was directed at the Orthodox Church leader's support of Putin’s election campaign. Since August 17, two members – Maria Alyokhina and Nadezhda Tolokonnikova – have been in prison for “hooliganism motivated by religious hatred.” And the festival’s poster? “We made this artwork on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2012, as a graffiti symbol of feminism for the streets of Moscow, because Russia needs a feminist movement,” the seven members of Pussy Riot explained.

The 37^th edition of the largest festival in the Nordic countries will focus on Russian contemporary cinema – new features and shorts, adding a wide range of documentaries on Russian society, and workshops on Russian film, culture and social climate. – This year’s event registered 132,447 admissions.