What's the Tea? #5 with Rio Roberta Lima

Rio Roberta Lima is an Austrian Brazilian artist based in Helsinki. Rio uses different media to create installations exploring alternative narratives of body and space, intersections between nature and technology, mythology and gender nonconformity. Rio has participated in international events, including the Cairo Biennale (2008), Donaufestival (2008 and 2016), Kyoto Experiment (2018), Vienna Art Week (2022), and solo exhibitions at the Coronet Theatre in London (2019 and 2023). Her works are featured in the Verbund Art Collection, the Austrian Federal Photography Collection, the MUSA Art Museum, and the Ursula Blickle Video Archive, among others. In 2007, Lima received the “Akademiefreundepreis” and the “H13” Performance Award. In 2018, Lima was given the Austrian Citizenship based on their merit, accomplishments, and contributions to the nation.

“What’s the Tea?” is a series of events designed by and for trans* and queer individuals to share their personal stories, inspirations, aspirations, and creative work. Centered around the concept of storytelling, the event draws on the slang term “tea” – meaning to share truth or gossip – to create a space where participants spill their own experiences and insights. Themes of transitoriness and transformation are woven through the narratives, highlighting moments that shape identity, creativity, and community. With a focus on “trans*stories” and “transitorities,” the event invites participants to engage in the transient nature of inspiration and self-expression from the guests.

“What’s the Tea?” is conceived by Faris Cucchi, Mzamo Nondlwana and Pêdra Costa and organized by VBKÖ.