Global Art Coalition Forms to Confront Rising Populist Right BY NICHOLAS FORREST | FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Global Art Coalition Forms to Confront Rising Populist Right
BY NICHOLAS FORREST | FEBRUARY 17, 2017

Global Art Coalition Forms to Confront Rising Populist Right
Hands off our revolution
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ARTISTS
Anish Kapoor

Edward Ruscha

The recent proliferation of artist-led activism has continued to gain momentum with the launch of a new movement that aims to counter what is described in its mission statement as “the rising rhetoric of right-wing populism, fascism and the increasingly stark expressions of xenophobia, racism, sexism, homophobia and unapologetic intolerance.”
More than 200 artists, musicians, writers, and art professionals from around the world have pledged their support for the “Hands Off Our Revolution” coalition, which calls itself “a global coalition affirming the radical nature of art.” Supporters include the likes of John Akomfrah, Yto Barrada, Sophie Calle, Tacita Dean, Isaac Julien, Anish Kapoor, William Kentridge, and Ed Ruscha, to name a few

The primary form of action will be a series of contemporary art exhibitions, actions, and events presented in both central art institutions and alternative spaces around the world, the first of which will be announced in March. The exhibitions and events will shine the spotlight on statements, questions, and reflections on the current state of affairs.

Commenting on the formation of the coalition, Anish Kapoor said: “We artists are united in our mission to counter small minded prejudice. Our art affirms our humanity and we insist on inclusion of all and for all. We call for action by people of good conscience to stand against the abhorrent policies of the governments that claim to represent us.”

“We live in challenging times, to do nothing is to be complicit with intolerance and cruelty. We must all unite, regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation, to oppose all forms of bigotry. Populism must never be a guide to our conduct, empathy should be our guide. As artists we bear witness and we must never be silent or be silenced,” said Yinka Shonibare.

For more info visit the website here