Art for Social Change

Art for Social Change - Documentary from Morango Network on Vimeo.

About
Art for Social Change is a space for artists, allowing them to challenge society's deepest assumptions and inspire new visions for the future through art.
Description
It is historical fact that every change that any society has brought within its framework was first envisioned by an artist. Iconography and symbolism in artwork plays a powerful role in changing hearts and minds.

It Art for Social Change is a space for emerging artists which allows them to express their ideas freely. Undoubtedly the language without words; Art in itself holds the power to convey without really saying anything. It is in this power that one has faith in when trying to shed light on deep issues, and it is this very power that can stimulate a change within society.

Art for Social Change showcases the US Embassy's project - a customized exchange program for 14 artists from around Pakistan. The project focused on themes of activism through art, social engagement, and professional development.

The program focused on how artists can use their work to draw attention to social problems and engage the community. Moreover, they got the opportunity to grow and influence each other, build connections to artists and curators in the US, as well as gain perspective into a new culture.

“The artists used a silent yet powerful medium to share their culture with an American audience, to engage in a cultural dialogue,” said Minister Counselor for Public Affairs Peter Brennan at the premiere.

“All the artists whose work was selected for this exhibit are to be commended for their fearlessness in calling attention to the struggles of everyday people, and highlighting critical new ways of thinking.”

While in the United States, the participants collaborated with U.S. art activists, engaged in community art projects, and explored ways to use their art to promote key social issues in their communities.

“Not only did the artists have the chance to learn about U.S. arts culture, they also  met with local counterparts to learn how to transfer an idea for social change into a community art project, ” explained Assistant Cultural Affairs Attache Jennifer McAndrew.  “We hope this exchange will give the artists the tools to use their art to make a positive impact in their communities back in Pakistan.”

New artwork by alumna Sehr Jalil. Sculpture by Rabia Rabail.

At the reception following the screening, the artists also exhibited new artwork inspired by their exchange experience.

To find out when “Art for Social Change” will air on local television, follow the film’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/Art-for-Social-Change/712736475416732.

For more details about the “Pakistani Voices” exhibit, visit www.phillipscollection.org/exhibitions/2013-10-01-exhibition-pakistani-voices.aspx.


The U.S. government invests nearly $40 million annually on exchange programs for Pakistani citizens.  More than 1,200 Pakistanis participate in the various high school, undergraduate, graduate and professional U.S.-sponsored exchange programs each year.  As a result, the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN) is one of the largest U.S. alumni networks in the world.

Consisting of more than 13,000 students and professionals who have participated in U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs, PUAN organizes a number of events in Pakistan, including community service projects, leadership trainings, roundtable discussions, and community engagement activities.