What role can the arts and creativity play in navigating unresolved concerns, ongoing debates and controversial questions for our communities?
Exploring complex topics, from reconciliation and truth-telling in the context of colonialism to polarising social or political issues, this symposium will feature exchanges between leading artists and researchers from Australia and Northern Ireland about difficult conversations we, as a globally connected society, need to have today.
The conversations
A Reading of Selected Poems by Kathleen McCracken
A reading of selected works exploring issues relating to First Nations experiences in Canada, in particular, violence perpetrated against indigenous women and the complexities of being an artistic ally to indigenous rights.
Ciara Hickey in Conversation with Array Collective
2021 winners of the Turner Prize, Array Collective, discuss their art-making as activism for women and LGBTQ+ rights and share some practical lessons in how to continue working as a collective despite obstacles and recognition by establishment interests.
The Bullock at the Mudhole
Paul Collis, Jen Crawford, Wayne Knight, Story Ground Collective
Barkindji Country & Ngemba Country: Gundabooka, Toorale Station, Bourke, Brewarrina
Frank Ferguson in conversation with Elinor Davies, James Ward and Carolann North
Frank Ferguson talks with Elinor Davies, James Ward and Carolann North about their written work covering subjects ranging from domestic experiences of ‘The Troubles’ to immigrant communities, afrofuturism and the future of Northern Ireland.
Creativity in Difficult Spaces: Creative Interventions with Veterans and First Responders
Vahri McKenzie in conversation with Tony Eaton, Geoff Grey, and Paul Magee
Siobhan Wills in Conversation with Willie Doherty
A case study between a human rights filmmaker and acclaimed visual artist sharing a common interest in documenting inter-generational social trauma through places and landscapes that have experienced political violence.
