Tomasz Sikorski

Tomasz Sikorski's presentation is aimed at tying art into social and political aesthetics.  He discussed that art with political ties are brought about when there is a need for change.  However with socially engaged art, there instills the awareness that something needs to be done.  Physiologically or intellectually, inspired art is more than just a beautiful picture; it engages us on multiple levels.

Engaged art can modify status quo, it has visible and invisible effects and there are cognitive reactions. One example that he showed was Bonfire of Freedom:  It shows a crowd surrounding a man standing on wood, encircled with Polish writing translating to "we should be free."  This is a strong image because it wakened people's senses.  It made them think about things they were not concerned about before.  These images, performances and demonstrations are representative of politically engaged art.

While every piece of art, every demonstration and every mural cannot be put in a museum it is very important that some of these get exhibited.  Some images or works are graphic or politically startling and normally would not be deemed appropriate to be shown on the "white walls" of a museum.  This is unfortunate and should be reconsidered.  These pieces, while I understand there is not room for every one, are important for the public to see and interpret.  They must be shared.