CURATED BY APRIL LIVINGSTON

How does art advocate?

In our current moment the lines between art and advocacy have started to blur. Although artists have always addressed political and human rights concerns, the current era of activism represents a seismic shift in cultural production toward social justice. Questions of how art is used to sway public opinion to a cause are being asked worldwide. Why do artists choose to make work that confronts problems in the world? Why would they decide to advocate?

A Different Kind of Weapon includes a group of artists who make work in a variety of media—from cast metal to projected video—in order to advocate for different human rights/social justice causes or issues. Incorporating contributions from both emerging and well-established artists, this exhibition traces the trajectory of art as advocacy through different styles and methods over time. The binding thread is that all of these artists use their skills and voices to weigh in on some of the most polarizing topics of our era.  Art examining race, healthcare, education, disability, LGBTQ rights, Women’s rights, environmental concerns and gun control invite dialog on how each of these topics affects our daily lives.

A Different Kind of Weapon is part of the Guest Curator Program at Alabama Contemporary Art Center. Accompanying lectures, performances and film programming are scheduled and will occur monthly during the run of the show.

FEATURING WORK BY:

Robin Baker | Natalie Baxter | Brandon Dean | Jillian Crochet | The Guerrilla Girls | Helina Metaferia | Jasmine Murrell | Christyn Overstake

COVID-19 PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES: 

To protect staff and patrons alike, Alabama Contemporary requires a mask and social distancing in the galleries. We’ve also amended our hours, are waiving admission, and placing limits on capacity. For more information on our COVID-19 opening policy go here. We encourage everyone to be safe and socially conscious as we all learn to move forward through this together.

OPENING DAY : September 11, 2020 @ 11 am

Generous funding for this exhibition and related programming is provided by: