The Dissident Goddesses Network is an association of researchers and artists who wish to find new approaches to Paleolithic and Neolithic figurines in Lower Austria. Cultural-historical, artistic and feminist approaches coalesce for this very purpose. They aim to raise public awareness of this heritage and to back women in the region in their self-image and self-confidence. Rural Lower Austria might play a crucial role in the ecologically sustainable future and biodiversity of Europe—which might not least be brought about by the achievements of women in rural areas. Aspects such as the question of social, economic, and political roles of women then and now, and the pros and cons of regionality, are paramount to this project.
Lower Austria is known for its excellent archeological tradition, which explains, among other things, its impressive inventory records. This project will see a core team of archeologists from Austria and their international colleagues discuss scientific interpretations of the figurines as well as the role of women in the Paleolithic, the significance of these finds for the modern age and the present day, and their identity-giving function in their historical “afterlife.”