Tomazs Kireńczuk: Festivals as a Tool for Social Change

„We are currently witnessing the most serious crisis of democracy in decades, marked by the growing influence of far-right parties and the increasing dominance of public discourse by populist thinking. We are gradually losing not only the ability but even the language to respond to the intensifying isolationist, nationalist and exclusionary tendencies. Artists and cultural institutions are facing mounting attacks, and censorship—especially economic censorship—is becoming more frequent and visible, even in countries with strong democratic traditions.

In this context, the role of cultural institutions becomes even more critical—they must serve as spaces for dialogue and experimentation with new forms of social coexistence.“

During the lecture/workshop, Tomasz Kirenczuk will share his experience as a festival curator. He will also present examples of various artistic practices that foster social and political change through artistic interventions.

The workshop will begin with an introductory lecture and will be followed by a discussion.