Mission
We aim to explore the power of art in shaping our understanding of conflict.
The Drawing the Line podcast explores the intersection of art in spaces of conflict, aiming to shed light on the diverse ways in which artistic expression engages with and responds to the complexities of conflicts worldwide.
By examining the power of art in documenting, expressing, and reconciling social tension and friction, this project offers a distinct perspective on the field of conflict studies, presenting an alternative approach to more traditional political science or international studies frameworks.
Through in-depth conversations with artists, scholars, and critics, Drawing the Line delves into the transformative role of art in conflict-ridden environments, offering a fresh and engaging entry point into the field of conflict studies. By showcasing the experiences and insights of individuals engaged in various creative forms, such as music or visual arts, this project emphasizes the significance of creativity as a means of understanding and navigating the complexities of sociopolitical strife. Recognizing the narrative power of art, this project examines how it can provide nuanced insights into the underlying causes and consequences of conflicts, while at the same time capturing the ambiguities and contradictions that often characterize them.
At the heart of the project, the podcast explores three overarching themes: expression, documentation, and reconciliation. Each theme provides a lens through which the dynamics of conflict can be examined, offering insight into the ways in which artists and communities engage with and respond to their surroundings.
Expression
Expression is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, and in conflict-ridden environments, it takes on a heightened significance as we delve into the myriad ways art becomes a vehicle for dissent, resistance, and empowerment. From musicians crafting anthems of defiance, to graffiti artists challenging societal norms and conventions, we examine the transformative power of art as a tool for communication, amplification, and the exploration of individual and collective identities.
Documentation
Through the lens of documentation, we focus on the crucial role of art in capturing and preserving the truth. Specifically, we explore the work of photojournalists who navigate refugee camps, battlefields, or protests and capture the realities around them. By examining traditional photojournalism and the evolving landscape of citizen journalism and social media, we explore the dynamic nature of documentation in conflict zones, and the mission of presenting accurate and meaningful narratives that contribute to a broader awareness of conflicts and their consequences.
Reconciliation
Finally, we delve into the theme of reconciliation, examining the healing potential of art in the aftermath of conflict. We explore how memorials contribute to the process of healing, forgiveness and the restoration of fractured societies. By highlighting the journeys of communities engaged in the pursuit of harmony, we seek to illuminate the transformative and redemptive power of art in post-conflict settings.