 Art is a tool of communication that does not rely on words. Rather, art represents ideas in meaningful ways that stick in people’s heads for a long time and makes them question certain ideas. Miss Bakhan who is a member of Art15 tells us about this initiative and the ideas that are focused on.
What is Art15 and what are the most important details people should know about the art it presents? The Art15 Project is a social initiative that aims to bring people together by sharing experiences of marginalized communities through art. The initiative is established to defy stereotypes and cultural norms, to create an inclusive space for diversity and expression. The platform tackles issues about women’s rights, LGBT+ community, and personal freedoms that are taboo in our communities. A group of young artists comes together to create art material as a form of educational content to promote acceptance and co-existence. When was Art15 founded? Early 2020, officially started working on March 2020. What is the purpose of the art represented by Art15? The purpose of using design and art is engaging with people through visual content, in our days, people do not often like to read long paragraphs but tend to stop at visually appealing posts. It is also a way to bring up critical issues to the surface and up for discussion in an artistic way. We have so many talented and unheard artists in our communities, this is the platform that brings them together to design and advocate creatively for causes they believe in. . Who creates the art of Art15? Artists from the local community draw and design the content. What is the message that Art15 mostly focuses on delivering? The main focus is spreading awareness around these critical issues. I believe now is the time where the discussion about culturally unaccepted subjects should happen. Our youth aspire more knowledge, they learn to be more accepting of diversity hence a good time to bring change about. The Art15 Project aims to provide a platform where the LGBT+ community and other minorities gain a sense of safety and freedom to express themselves without the fear of being discriminated against. Also, increasing the visibility for the LGBT+ community in Iraq through a social media platform that will hopefully lead to starting the dialogue among the LGBT+ community and allies to discuss the current situation, needs, and future plans. Tell us about the society’s reaction. Has the platform been receiving criticism or support? The platform is rather new, we have been receiving support from allies, but we expect different reactions as well. How do you think art changes the way society looks at the LGBT+ community? We promote love and acceptance, what other way is there to get there without a touch of art? I think the idea came from a personal experience where I was touched by a piece of art more than workshops and long articles I have read. Creative design, paintings, films, and theater project reality and connect us without words. These stories have been experienced and are told through the art pieces; I think this is a way for a queer artist to express themselves in a daring way without fearing consequences. At the same time, a way to reach society without challenging them with unfamiliar subjects. Where can people find your art or contact you? We are currently on both Twitter and Instagram, we can be contacted there directly or through the following email: [email protected] FOLLOW ART15 ON INSTAGRAM AND TWITTER.
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