Public talk: Truth to power in the arts
Art, artists and arts organisations reflect and deal with world events in different ways. Sometimes they take a stance, sometimes they prefer raising questions or adding nuance to polarizing topics. Political or social positions may conflict with political visions or economic interests.
Many professionals in the arts field feel a responsibility towards this. Art has expressive power and the ability to reach a wide audience. In recent years we have seen in Europe, and sometimes in Flanders, that the freedom of expression of artists and arts organisations has come under pressure. And although this pressure has no legal basis, it can have it's impact. Sometimes funding is called into question, sometimes artists are deprived of presentation opportunities.
In Europe, including at times in Flanders, we've witnessed a concerning trend where the freedom of expression for artists and arts organizations has faced increasing challenges. And although this pressure has no legal basis, it can have it's impact. Sometimes funding is called into question, sometimes artists are deprived of presentation opportunities.
On 31 May, Flanders Arts Institute is organising a public talk as part of Kunstenfestivaldesarts on the voice and agency of the arts when it comes to issues of a political and social nature. Who is dealing with it and in what way? Are there limits to our freedom of expression, and if so, what are they? And if not, what is needed to ensure that this does not change in the future?
Mary Ann de Vlieg will lead a conversation between Tom Bonte (Ancienne Belgique), Kasia Redzisz (Kanal), Maria Dogahe (Kaaitheater, Caddy) and Bill Dietz (Overtoon). Our keynote opener is Yazan Khalili.
Language
English
