Invisible, Visible, Art as Activism Panel Event

Art is a tool for social change.

Hear directly from the artists and film-makers behind the 'Invisible, Visible' exhibition. They will share what inspired their pieces, how they are highlighting the plight of activists with a special focus on the Woman, Life, Freedom movement.

Background

All over the world people, especially women and gender diverse people are experiencing violations of their human rights, and all over the world people are standing up to protect them. We must hear their voices, and we must pay attention.

This exhibition and campaign seeks to challenge the concept of giving a voice to the voiceless and instead recognising everyone has a voice but not necessarily a platform. Through this exhibition we hope to play a part in making the 'invisible' visible.

More about the artists...
Lobat Nezami is a painter. Her Iranian background & degree in International Development have heavily influenced her involvement in human rights
issues, promoting equal opportunities & peace in the community. This notion of bringing peace, balance & unity along with her interest
in traditional Persian artwork & has prompted her to create her current works.

Mitra Mmalekzadeh is a Melbourne-based Visual artist who has exhibited her artworks including photographs and installations in the last 20 years. While her core belief is freedom of choice, she looks for beauty in all its forms. In this exhibition, she explores both concepts and showcases the suffering sustained by people as a result of the lack of that freedom.

Parisima Kouklan, a fashion designer turned multi-disciplinary artist, explores painting, sculpture, photography, and more. Her project "Wrise," inspired by Iran's recent uprising, features a powerful soundtrack blending Zack Hemsey's "The Way" with Iranian Taar improvisation. This unique fusion offers a poignant commentary on the challenges of Iranian women.

Payam Khajeh, an Iranian Australian artist in Melbourne, acclaimed by institutions like the Contemporary Art Society of Victoria and Adelaide, holds a Master of Visual Arts from the University of South Australia. Over two decades, he has excelled in diverse mediums. His paintings and
sculptures seamlessly blend tradition and innovation, pushing artistic boundaries.