WEEK 3: Representation and Point of View

In this third session we will discuss the ethics of portraying economic hardship in art. Who gets to tell these stories, and how can they avoid perpetuating stereotypes? We will explore ethical storytelling and representation in art and film by studying the cases of socially conscious artists: JR’s Women Are Heroes, Zanele Muholi’s Faces and Phases, and Vik Muniz’s Waste Land. We will also analyse works by grassroots filmmakers and photographers whose work present with dignity rather than exploits their subjects. It is important during the session to evaluate together how art can diverse voice perspectives while avoiding exploitative representations.