The artist and curator behind Mona’s “Ladies Lounge” has spoken out following a legal ruling that will force the exclusive female-only space to open to men.
Kirsha Kaechele took to social media to express her distress over the decision made by the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal earlier this week, prompted by a complaint from a male visitor from the mainland.
“I am deeply saddened by the court’s ruling against the Ladies Lounge,” Kaechele said.
“But, by grace of due process, I have been granted a 28-day period. This allows me space to absorb the situation, seek counsel and compose myself.”
“I am so grateful for your ongoing understanding and support through one of the most difficult periods of my life. Such periods can be painful, as many of us know.”
A spokesperson for Mona said the museum was now considering its options.
They had previously indicated, prior to the ruling, that appealing to the Supreme Court was a possibility, though it remains uncertain whether they will pursue this course of action.
Tribunal Deputy President Richard Grueber said in his published decision that the case “involves conflict between an artwork which deliberately and overtly discriminates for artistic purpose and legislation which has the objective of prohibiting discrimination”.
He said the man who made the complaint, Jason Lau, was “not happy” with being refused entry to the women-only space after paying the museum’s $35 entry fee.
“Mr Lau is male. As he does not identify as a lady he was refused entry to the Ladies Lounge,” Grueber said.
“He had paid the full entry price for Mona but was not be able to experience the artwork contained within the Ladies Lounge.”
