Courageous Conversations About Race: Using Art to Dialogue Through Discomfort

Dr. Gloria J. Wilson - University of Arizona

Dr. Sara Scott Shields - Florida State University

The Arts have always played an instrumental role in provoking commentary about pressing social issues, informing and shaping the consciousness of its audiences, both globally and locally. The current socio-political climate in the United States has re-ignited a conversation about race and racism; educators have continued to express concern over the impact of colorblind attitudes/policy on student outcomes and their surrounding communities. Art education scholars have pressed these issues to include critical analysis and discussion about both traditional and contemporary art practices and the ways the arts have played a pivotal role in imagining alternative ways to comprehend and transform racial understanding, bias, and equitable practices. As a means of addressing these concerns, this session aims to facilitate navigating brave discussions, placing race at the center, by using contemporary works of art as a catalyst toward a deeper understanding of the intersection of racial identity politics and social outcomes in North America. Inspired by contemporary educational theory and arts practices, the facilitators of this session aim to broaden the concerns of educators as a means toward understanding the human condition and build communal ties among each other and within their classrooms. Using the works of Carrie Mae Weems, Paul Rucker, Wafa Bilal, and Angelica Dass, the presenters will provide activities for engaging in discourse about difficult topics related to race. You will be asked to complete a short online questionnaire to secure your space. Limited to 32 participants.  Free and open to the public., suggested $10 donation.

Link to questionnaire: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7WQQLPL