Art & Democracy: Threats to Artistic Freedom

Art and culture, free from censorship and interference, are fundamental pillars of a vibrant democracy. By fostering reflection, critical thought, and open debate, the arts hold the power to inspire societal change and strengthen democratic values. Artistic freedom, the principle of independence, and the promotion of inclusion and diversity are not just cultural ideals – they are vital components of any healthy democracy. It is our collective responsibility to protect these freedoms and respond when they are under threat.  

This seminar will explore the current conditions faced by artists in the Nordic countries and discuss how our societies can ensure that art and culture remain independent, unencumbered, and free from political or ideological constraints. We will examine findings from a recent report by the Swedish Agency for Cultural Policy, which highlights the growing threats, harassment, and violence faced by artists and writers across the Nordics. We will also address the broader global context, looking at the rising wave of artistic censorship and the threats it presents to democracy and creative freedom worldwide. 

Join us for this important conversation, and contribute your thoughts on how we can collectively safeguard the integrity of artistic expression in Iceland, and across the Nordics. 

Preliminary program:

Presentation of the Kulturanalys Norden report “Threats, violence and harassment against artists and writers in the Nordic countries”. 

Panel discussion with the following participants: 

• Sofia Arkhede, researcher at the Swedish Agency for Cultural Policy, Kulturanalys Norden

• Jóna Hlíf Halldórsdóttir, artist and chair of the Icelandic Art Association (BÍL). 

• Khaled Barakeh, Syrian artist who studied in Denmark and is living in Germany 

• Hanan Benhammar, Algerian/French artist living in Norway 

• Odee, Icelandic artist and activist

Moderator: Jonatan Habib Engqvist, author and curator.

Access to Elissa is good, a low threshold is into the auditorium. A ramp leads to the building from the parking lot and an automatic button opens a door. 

Performative Installation: ABSENCED
(May 15-29) 

In conjunction with the seminar, an installation titled “ABSENCED” will be on view at the Reykjavik City Library from the 15th May to 29th May. Curated by Khaled Barakeh, this project showcases how artistic voices are often silenced across geopolitically sensitive contexts. The installation will include works from artists who have faced censorship and repression. Printers will be installed above the hallway in the library, and through live printing of the artist’s contributions, audiences will experience a continuous outpouring of artistic expression, serving as a powerful reminder of resilience against oppression. The project also critiques the global rise of nationalism that threatens artistic freedom, emphasizing the necessity for societal support for creators facing adversity.

More information on the exhibition coming soon on our webpage.