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This is terrifying - read the full article.

TUMBLR AS HOME: Featuring "The Confessional" by 2020k, a mixed-media installation piece exploring Queer identity and coming-of-age concepts through video projections, music, and online journaling. Exhibition curated for Blankspace located at 843 Holland Ave Wilksburg, PA 15221. "The concept is meant to be playful and experimental, celebrating our childhoods and the things that we might see as cringe or silly now. This playfulness, however, is not necessarily childishness, as much of the Tumblr era was defined by experimenting with sex and sexuality through art and writing. Rather than a group show finding commonalities between large bodies of work, we want to allow specific artists to respond to this idea to create a cohesive and effective use of what Blankspace offers. It’s a space that shows the consequences of the passage of time through the cracks in the walls, layers of paint, and creaks in the floor. So instead of treating it as a gallery space for a thematic group exhibition, we want to use the space’s physical reality as part of the theme and allow artists to respond to the space." - Curators @moondropflowerart & @emmawithglasses Group show with @twenty20k @moondropflowerart @open_casket_birthday_bash @organizedvoid1 @evelynsreverie Up through the end of this week.

Art and Music as Catalysts for Social Justice and Racial Equality In our rapidly evolving world, art and music stand as profound vehicles for social change and racial equality. These creative expressions transcend barriers, unite diverse voices, and amplify critical conversations that drive progress. 🎨 Art has the power to challenge perspectives, tell untold stories, and inspire empathy. From murals that beautify communities to powerful visual campaigns, art engages viewers in dialogue and reflection, making complex social issues more accessible and emotionally resonant. 🎵 Music serves as a universal language that connects people across cultural divides. Through lyrics, melodies, and performances, musicians highlight injustices, celebrate diversity, and foster solidarity. Songs of resistance and hope become anthems for movements, encouraging collective action and resilience. As we advocate for equity and justice, let’s recognize and harness the transformative potential of art and music. By supporting artists and musicians who champion these causes, we contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society. #SocialJustice #RacialEquality #ArtForChange #MusicForJustice #CreativeActivism

🎭 🌍 What does it take to launch - and maintain - a large global theatre digital infrastructure like The Theatre Times? @kasialech and I are asked about this all the time, so we wrote it down: "Since its launch in November 2016, TheTheatreTimes.com has published over 5,000 articles, interviews, and theatre reviews covering theatre in 90 countries and regions. With 32 thematic sections, more than 150 Regional Managing Editors, and over 60 media partners around the world, we have grown to be the most far-reaching and comprehensive global theatre portal today. TheTheatreTimes.com is envisioned as a transnational discursive space that brings together theatre scholars, theatre-makers, and theatre lovers, generating opportunities for interaction and creative development amongst a wide network. Our collaborative, decentralized model runs counter to so-called helicopter research, an approach in which less wealthy nations provide research source material but don’t always share the benefits of the research. Global conflicts often ask of us to negotiate between competing transnational interests; disparities in support of local cultures demand that we stretch our resources beyond our capacities; the issues we cover, from refugee crises, genocides, and the COVID-19 pandemic, to international women, disability and LGBTQ+ rights — or their lack — leave us hopeless. And yet, out of the wreckage of human lives left behind by the daily global calamities, we also see the indomitable human spirit sprouting through. We see theatre artists rising up to reclaim their voices, their rights, their stories, and their dignity. We see theatre that connects and communicates, that faces, with perseverance and the quiet heroism of everyday life and everyday art making, the trauma and misery of human existence." READ MORE: https://lnkd.in/eNEyZ9m5

New article - by me - out for the University Observer! What do I talk about: Public Art, and how and why, by its nature, this type of art is prone to be a vessel for activism. I also bring some example of queer public art, focusing in the last part of the article specifically on initiatives of public queer art in Dublin. “It could be argued that public art is the most anarchic of all; unlike other forms of art which are often institutionalised by being put in museums, public art is freely accessible and enjoyable to everyone. It escapes the necessary monetisation of experience derived from capitalism.” https://lnkd.in/es4qVT5d

I am often asked what is art for or what is the role of the artist? I think this quote from one of the greatest thinkers and writers of the 20thC, James Baldwin, sums up perfectly what it means to be an artist and their duty to society: ''The artist is distinguished from all other responsible actors in society — the politicians, legislators, educators, and scientists — by the fact that he is his own test tube, his own laboratory, working according to very rigorous rules, however unstated these may be, and cannot allow any consideration to supersede his responsibility to reveal all that he can possibly discover concerning the mystery of the human being. Society must accept some things as real; but he must always know that visibile reality hides a deeper one, and that all our action and achievement rest on things unseen. A society must assume that it is stable, but the artist must know, and he must let us know, that there is nothing stable under heaven. One cannot possibly build a school, teach a child, or drive a car without taking some things for granted. The artist cannot and must not take anything for granted, but must drive to the heart of every answer and expose the question the answer hides.'' CasildART Contemporary is a not-for-profit art gallery. We place contemporary Black art in corporate spaces to showcase and celebrate the talent and creativity of Black artists. If you are interested in creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for your employees, clients and visitors, please get in touch @info@casildart.com #diversity #inclusion #equity #artforchange #corporate #culturalchange #transformation #BHM2024 #reclaimingnarrtives #artrentals #representation #duty #purpose

ARTISTS AS CHANGE-MAKERS We need artists that are involved in change-making. That's pretty clear. Our statement for residencies for the future, after more than 35 mostly successful artists staying at Hektor, couldn't be more clear: it is about making the world not just prettier, but also more livable, durable, engaged and sustainable. In 2025 we are looking for artists that make change through their creativity and or creative process. Like Salomée Souag and Zeno Aerts, who have both spent the last weeks creating and cataloguing natural pigments. Or Ruby Rare, who guides you towards healthier relationships. Or Matthew Carney, who showed the queer community the wilderness of Lanzarote. If you're up for a change, check out the call: https://lnkd.in/duhJRZsm If you know someone who might be interested: tag them.

Art and Culture for All 🌍 Cultural venues should be gateways to inclusion. Visiting accessible museums and galleries has enriched my life immeasurably. Everyone, regardless of their abilities, should have equal access to enjoy and participate in the arts. In everything I do, I advocate for an inclusive approach that values and celebrates diversity. I am committed to promoting equality and ensuring that disabled people have the same opportunities and experiences as everyone else. By championing accessibility in the arts, we can create a richer, more vibrant cultural landscape where everyone feels welcomed and valued. Visit my website to see how we can work together to make the arts accessible to all. https://lnkd.in/e4t5VfXJ Image description: In this photo, I’m sitting in a bright, open space, holding a notebook and smiling as I discuss accessibility in the arts. I’m wearing a white blazer over a floral top, with my short mousey brown hair styled neatly. The setting is inviting and modern, reflecting my passion for ensuring everyone, regardless of their abilities, has equal access to enjoy and participate in the arts. #ArtForAll #InclusiveCulture #AccessibilityInTheArts #Equality #Diversity #Inclusion #CulturalInclusion #AccessibilityMatters #InclusiveVenues

As Juneteenth gains recognition as a federal holiday, many are discovering its profound significance. For those unfamiliar, Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing the end of slavery—a full two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This historic day symbolizes freedom and the rich tapestry of African American culture. If you're wondering how to honor Juneteenth, here are some impactful ways to celebrate: -Sunrise Walk/Run: Begin the day with reflection by joining a sunrise walk or run, contemplating the long journey towards freedom and equality. -Community Meals: Participate in or host a meal featuring traditional African American cuisine. It's a great way to connect and share stories. -Support Black-Owned Businesses: Boost economic empowerment by shopping at Black-owned establishments. -Educational Events: Dive into African American history through lectures, documentaries, and discussions about Juneteenth and social justice. -Visit Historical Sites: Explore museums and cultural centers with special Juneteenth exhibits to deepen your understanding. -Volunteer: Give back by supporting community organizations working towards equality and justice. -Cultural Festivals: Celebrate with music, art, and dance at festivals showcasing African American heritage. -Reflection: Take time for personal meditation, honoring the struggles and victories in the quest for freedom. -Family Activities: Engage your family in educational and creative activities focused on African American culture. -Virtual Events: Participate in online concerts, seminars, or performances if you prefer celebrating from home. Juneteenth is a day for remembrance, celebration, and community. However you choose to observe, it's an opportunity to honor the past and envision a future of justice and equality. Enjoy the holiday and see you next week! #Juneteenth #CelebrateFreedom #SupportBlackBusiness #Community #Equality

As we celebrate Women's History Month, it's a time to reflect on the remarkable contributions of women trailblazers who have shaped history and continue to inspire us today. From breaking barriers in male-dominated fields to advocating for social change and innovation, these women have demonstrated resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to their goals. In this article, we delve into the stories of some extraordinary women who have left an indelible mark on the world and paved the way for future generations.