The Qonnect

A platform exploring stories of purposeful life lived across and between cultures and celebrating our common existence and humanity. Hosted by Qali Id, a world traveller, advocate and storyteller, this weekly interview podcast champions the individual story as being the fabric of our common humanity and connecting us to a new way of seeing the world. You will hear everyday people’s stories on identity, culture, lifestyle and purpose as guided by personable, introspective and intimate conversations.

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The Qonnect

Can Art Change the World?

October 23, 2024 • Qali Id • Season 4 • Episode 6

In this episode of The Qonnect Podcast, I explore the profound impact of art in driving social change. I reflect on the legacies of music icons like Nina Simone and Michael Jackson, as well as Ai Weiwei’s bold political commentary and visual artist JR’s transformative murals.

This episode underscores the responsibility of artists to use their platforms for advocacy, fostering empathy, and bridging societal divides. I share some of my own reflections on the current socio-political climate, and the enduring power of art in promoting shared humanity and calling for renewed efforts in leveraging art for social justice.

00:00 Introduction to 'Backlash Blues' by Nina Simone

01:37 Nina Simone's Legacy and Documentary

02:38 The Role of Art in Social Change

05:12 Michael Jackson's Impactful Music

07:07 Art as a Tool for Activism

08:07 Ai Weiwei: Challenging Power Through Art

09:33 The Universal Language of Art

10:34 The Power of Art in Humanising 'The Other'

11:17 JR's Transformative Prison Mural

12:46 JR's Journey from Graffiti to Global Art

13:51 Art as a Tool for Connection and Visibility

14:29 The Social Responsibility of Artists

15:07 The Role of Art in Advocacy and Activism

15:56 The Consequences of Silence in Art

17:22 The Power and Responsibility of Artists

Relevant Links:

"Backlash Blues" by Nina Simone
"What Happened, Miss Simone?" (2015) - On Netflix
"Earth Song" - Michael Jackson
"They Don’t Care About Us" – Michael Jackson (2020 Spike Lee Director's Cut)
Ai Weiwei: The West should be ‘ashamed’ of global refugee crisis | Real Talk Interview on Middle East Eye
"Human Flow" - Ai Weiwei
"Never Sorry" – Ai Weiwei
TED Talk: "Can Art Change the World?" – JR
TEHACHAPI, THE YARD - JR

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