Ted Talk: Shirin Neshat: Art in exile

"Art is our weapon, culture is our form of resistance."  

                            -Shirin Neshat 

http://www.gladstonegallery.com/neshat.asp
http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/shirin_neshat_art_in_exile.html

Art not only is conveyed through the act of piecing together a vibrant pair of red pants and a 10$ thrift store shirt, but a way to voice social commentary on the world today. Shirin Neshat portrays the Pre and Post Islamic Revolution through film and visual art. Captivating the audience with striking images that she describes as a "political and allegoric story", Neshat portrays the life of Iranian women. Government does anything and everything to stay in power, leaving the people of Iran facing censorship, harassment, arrest, torture, or even execution. Although she has no access to her country, Shirin Neshat has found her voice defending these women who are "educated, sexually open, fearless,  and seriously feminist." This video is truly inspiring and makes us fully appreciate the gift of having a voice.

Jessi Arrington: Wearing Nothing New

http://luckysoandso.com/
http://www.ted.com/talks/jessi_arrington_wearing_nothing_new.html

"Fitting in is way over-rated...Just be who you are. Embrace your inner child."
                                           -Jessi Arrington
The beauty of expression through developing a unique fashion style is an art form. Being creative is not limited to what you make, but also what you wear. The power of color, pattern, and combination through clothing is just as fun as deciding paint on a canvas or composition for a design. Our artistic eye is used is every day activity, so why not embrace it!  Rummaging through the thrift store, saving some extra bucks, and feeling confident and great is everything Jessi conveys and lives by.

Flickr Account

http://www.flickr.com/photos/meredithmcdevitt/5789999285/in/photostream