How has art and creative activity contributed to confronting crises in Asia? While we face the current pandemic, along with deep social, political, and economic challenges, perhaps we can take heart in artists’ creative responses to violent conflict, environmental change, and panic. Five talks look into understanding, recovery, and reform in Japan, China, Armenia, Bangladesh, and Java, Indonesia.

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Jomin o Joban, a tale of the land

Munem Wasif

Deeply enmeshed with the political complexities of the Bengal region, the artistic practice of Munem Wasif addresses the aftermaths of colonialism, issues of environmental exploitation, and the social repercussions of divisive border policing in the wake of globalisation. In this talk, the artist will discuss previous and recent projects that exemplify his working methodology, aesthetic criteria, and commitment to images—both still and moving­—that capture, convey, and transcend reality.

About the Presenter

Munem Wasif (Bangladesh) explores complex socio-political issues through photography and video. His artistic practice is marked by close engagement and intimate commitment, both physical and psychological, to his subjects of interest and it usually unfolds through long-term research processes. While interested in the archival and social value of documentary photography, his works often confound the boundaries between fact and fiction. He has participated in international exhibitions such as Sharjah Biennial 14 (2019); the 9th Asia Pacific Triennale of Contemporary Art, Brisbane (2018-19); An Atlas of Mirrors, Singapore Biennale (2016), among numerous others. Wasif is currently fellow at Wissenschaftskolleg zu Berlin (2020 – 2021).

OTHER LECTURES IN THIS SERIES

FRI FEB 5

SAT FEB 13

SAT FEB 20

SAT FEB 27

SAT MAR 6