Madrid
Completed

Exploring Sheila R. Melhem's "Sólo un nombre" Photography Exhibition at the National Museum of Anthropology

This project showcased photographic portraits of transgender children, emphasizing the importance of identity and celebrating gender diversity.

Sheila R. Melhem's exhibition, "Sólo un nombre (Debajo estoy yo)," presented a moving series of portraits focusing on transgender children. Displayed on the exterior walls of the National Museum of Anthropology, it aimed to publicly embrace themes of identity, naming, and gender diversity. This project provided a unique opportunity to engage with contemporary social issues through powerful photographic storytelling and celebrate childhood.

About Sólo un nombre (Debajo estoy yo) at National Museum of Anthropology in Madrid

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Sólo un nombre (Debajo estoy yo) at National Museum of Anthropology in Madrid

Exhibition summary

This exhibition by photographer Sheila R. Melhem presents portraits of transgender children in their everyday, playful moments, aiming to showcase gender diversity and the importance of identity and being named. The project was displayed on the exterior of the National Museum of Anthropology, symbolizing the public embrace of diversity.

Curatorial context

Sólo un nombre (Debajo estoy yo) is a project by photographer and editor Sheila R. Melhem that encompasses an exhibition, a photobook, and a documentary. The exhibition focuses on transgender children (niños, niñas y niñes trans), portraying them in relaxed, everyday moments with friends and during their favorite games. Melhem's intention was to capture their authentic selves and learn about the significance of identity and being named, using the 'e' pronoun as an example. The photographs aim to foster a broader understanding of gender diversity and encourage viewers to see the simple, natural reality of gender variance in childhood. The National Museum of Anthropology aligns with Melhem's project by displaying the exhibition on its exterior walls, a symbolic act of bringing diversity into public view. This initiative coincides with Madrid's Pride Week (MADO), with the museum actively participating in the celebration of diversity. The exhibition is also part of Cogam's cultural program 'La Oculta'. A guided tour led by Sheila R. Melhem was offered on July 10, 2019, as part of an 'Expomiércoles' event.

Admission and ticket notes

The exhibition was included in the museum's temporary exhibitions and took place in the exterior space. Visitors could attend a guided tour on July 10, 2019, led by the artist. Specific ticketing details beyond general museum admission are not provided, but it is implied to be accessible with museum entry or as an external display.

Sólo un nombre (Debajo estoy yo) key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Sólo un nombre (Debajo estoy yo) at National Museum of Anthropology in Madrid

Venue
National Museum of Anthropology
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
May 31, 2019 – Oct 13, 2019
Artist line / attribution
A project by Sheila R. Melhem, photographer and editor. The exhibition was a collaboration between the Escuela Artediez and the Museo Nacional de Antropología, with support from Chrysallis, Transdiversa, and Draga associations.
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