Leto Keunen is a Brussels based visual artist and designer exploring the intersections of objects, social dynamics, and power structures. Her practice critically examines gender narratives and the relationships between public and domestic spaces, using spatial and material practices as a tool for questioning and reimagining existing systems.
Through a research-driven and participatory approach, she engages in installation art and speculative scenarios to challenge societal norms and foster critical reflection. Her work considers everyday practices as sites of resistance and collective transformation, seeking to inspire alternative modes of social interaction and shared responsibility.
Wool, silk, bronze
2023
As night falls, visibility in the city decreases. However, there are places in the city that have the potential to bring light to dark urban spaces. Can a night shop—and that neon-lit spot by the door— be a source of life and function as an urban safe space?
This intervention was part of a project about gender-related fear in public spaces. During a year-long proces I introduced various design interventions, objects, and actions that would empower individuals in an urban environment and activate bystanders to take a proactive role in the city.
An intervention in a night shop explores its potential as urban safe space. During the night, a carpet is placed in the shop, bringing together local residents and passersby to engage in conversation about the issue. The carpet is made of white felt, contrasting with the bright colors of the products filling the shelves, and offering a visual release. The material conveys a sense of contraction, transparency, and vulnerability, linking to the feelings of insecurity some people experience. Bronze rings indicate the different night shops in the city. This memento encourages the shop owner to apply the ideas and conversations in practice in the future.
Exhibittion views at the Fabriek, Eindhoven (NL), 2023.