Within the chaotic mix of conflicting voices and viewpoints, the work of an artist may emerge as the most effective and unified declaration of a nation, articulating the concerns of the people and inspiring social change. Artistic statements are often considered pure – statements that un-biasedly capture the essence of a political dispute in a way that no other dialogue can. Artists can transcend educational barriers and bring political discourse to a global stage. This panel will discuss the ways in which specific artistic voices emerge in societies; how art can be used to educate people about their rights; the skills and mediums that artists employ to raise awareness; and the effect on the art and the artist when he or she transforms into a representative of the people, or even the government.
Moderator
- Philip Kennicott, Art & Architecture Critic, The Washington Post (USA)
Panelists
- Ai Wei Wei, Artist & Architect (China) - via video
- Manny Ansar, Singer; Executive Director, Festival au Désert (Mali)
- Reza Deghati, Founder, Ainaworld; Journalist & Photographer (Iran)
- Roberto Hernández, Movie Director & Researcher (Mexico)