The world’s first Global Artivism Conference, taking place in Pretoria from 5 to 8 September will explore the dynamic intersection of the arts and activism, highlighting the pivotal role of creative expression in advocating for societal and environmental issues. In partnership with the Riky Rick Foundation, Tshwane University of Technology’s Faculty of Arts and Design is hosting the conference, along with the City of Tshwane and the Global Commons Alliance. The conference, themed “Artivism: Embracing Cultural Activism for a Safe and Just World,” will emphasise the vital role of creative expression in promoting social and environmental change. A highlight will be the international exhibition Women’s Rights Are Human Rights, which will be on display at the artivism conference, organised and curated by Elizabeth Resnick. This exhibition leverages the powerful medium of poster art from designers all over the globe that brings artivism to life by addressing the intertwined nature of women’s rights and human rights. Each design is a call to action, urging viewers to recognise the injustices women face and to take a stand against them. From issues like reproductive rights and gender-based violence to economic inequality and political disenfranchisement, these artworks challenge the status quo and demand that women’s rights be acknowledged as human rights.
“This Body is Not a Political Battleground” – Tina Lam Collier
“The only actual debate about abortion is: Do you want safe ones or dangerous ones?” – Scott Bakal
“Leave my body alone -This image addresses the idea that our bodies are our own and we should, of course, have control over what we do.” – Anita Kunz
“Verbal abuse can be just as horrific. But you don’t have to suffer in silence.” – Saatchi & Saatchi Singapore
“I Have a Right to Live a Life Far from the Violence” – Amirhossein Rastegari
Stop violence against girls – Girls deserve a supportive environment and, above all, protection from harmful practices like female genital mutilation, forced marriage, and honor killings. Our objective is to shatter the silence that often surrounds the violence or discrimination they face. By naming and discussing these issues openly, we enable those affected to advocate for themselves. – Saatchi & Saatchi Zürich
The Women’s Rights Are Human Rights exhibition aims to raise awareness of the issues girls/ women face under constant threat of violence and to facilitate a discussion on the topic and improve the situation globally.