It is a reality that culture is meaningful and effective in terms not of the individual efforts, ideas and actions of the artists but within the totality of the social conditions in which they are produced.

We know there are many artists and intellectual who produce art for the dominant class and whose interests overlap with those of the establishment. On the other hand, there are many more whose work is inspired by the the ordinary lives of the masses and who contribute to social change by representing the interests of those who are oppressed.

For years people have discussed the role of artists and intellectuals in the struggle for democratic rights and freedoms, but it is hard to imagine how art and culture can be separated from the movement. The struggle for democracy is directly linked to culture and art, with the movement relying on art and culture to strengthen its collective effort. In return, the battle for democracy supports the intellectual and artistic struggle for freedom.

Thus we often see political action in the arts increase, resulting in artists and intellectuals creating a strong oppositional force and a movement in their own right, which in turn is able to capture the imagination of the masses and lead a movement for change.

This year we will present an opportunity to discuss the role of arts and culture, and indeed artists and intellectuals in the context of the ongoing struggle for democracy in Turkey. Our panelists will share their expertise and experience of the pressure on artists, academics and intellectuals in Turkey, and will draw conclusions from which lessons can be learnt by all.

We are delighted to be able to bring together intellectuals and artists from Turkey with our community, and hope to see many of you at this timely panel discussion.

" PANEL: THE ROLE OF ARTS, CULTURE AND INTELLECTUALS IN THE STRUGGLE FOR DEMOCRACY
30 June, Friday,
Time: 18:30
North London Community House"

Speakers

Aydın Çubukçu Writer

Mehmet Ali Alabora Artist

Füsun Demirel Artist

Prof. Naif Bezwan Academic