Reveal/Reform

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About

Within this immersive exhibition, we are dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of emotional and mental connections to systemic confines, while also shedding light on the cultures and national identities grounded in anti-colonial resistance. This exhibit seeks to REVEAL the impact of radicalized capitalism on the masses and individual. Inviting to imagine a new culture of collective care, inspiring us to REFORM . Lastly, it hopes to act as a space to reconnect and invites a variety of diverse groups to these conversations.

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Your exploration will reveal how art can serve as a catalyst for self-reflection and a channel for personal and collective healing.

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Furthermore, we celebrate the diversity of cultural and national identities that have been shaped by resistance to colonial and capitalist forces. As you navigate through the exhibition, you will encounter artistic expressions that amplify marginalized voices, reflecting the richness and resilience of cultures that have histories of resistance, provided by student artists and activists. Some of the student organizers included will be Filipino activist groups such as Sulong and Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights.

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We look forward to welcoming you to "Reveal/Reform" and witnessing the transformative power of art and activism in building bridges of empathy and compassion. Join the UBC ARTIVISM Festival (Sept 6-Oct 19) and the AMS Hatch Art Gallery for this exhibition from September 20th to October 19th and together, in representing the student body and cultural activist collective's radical art.

Links

• Artivism 2023: Madness in the Masses arts.ubc.ca
• Hatch Art Gallery ams.ubc.ca
• Instagram instagram.com

Organizer

Jesse Medrano

Jesse Medrano, the creative force behind "Artivism 2023: Madness in the Masses," is a individual who embodies passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to social justice. Currently pursuing a 4th-year degree in Gender, Race, and Sexuality Social Justice at UBC, Jesse's journey as a first-generation Filipino within challenging socioeconomic circumstances has profoundly shaped their perspective.

As the student creative director of Artivism, Jesse assumes a leadership role in curating a transformative festival experience. Their vision for the event stems from personal experiences living at the intersection of gender, racial, and class oppression as a first generation born Filipino. Jesse has come to recognize the transformative power of storytelling and its capacity to evoke empathy and collective care. They are determined to break the stigma around sharing stories of hardship and use them as a catalyst for fostering understanding and solidarity among diverse communities.

Inspired by the resilience and hope they found in art and activism, Jesse seeks to provide others with the same sense of empowerment and renewal. Their desire to offer newfound hope to individuals, especially those facing adversity, serves as a driving force behind the festival's conception.

Moreover, Jesse's connection to Filipino culture deeply influences the festival's ethos. They draw inspiration from deep-rooted Filipino cultural values of collective care and national identity forged through anti-colonial resistance. This desire to care for the community and nurture a sense of collectivism informs the very essence of the events they organize.

Incorporating the spirit of celebration and unity from their upbringing, Jesse aims to create an inclusive space for activists and masses to gather, exchange ideas, and find hope in their social relations. By embracing Filipino cultural elements, the festival becomes a tapestry of voices and experiences, woven together to create a platform for empowerment and change.

Through their efforts, they embody the transformative potential of art and activism, attempting to create conversation on class systems, foster storytelling on the mental and emotional effects of oppression and lastly imagine a culture of community and collective through creativity.

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