Debating Society ‘Who Needs Radical Art?’

EVENT INFORMATION

Who needs ‘Radical Art’?

We are delighted to welcome JJ Charlesworth, editor of ArtReview – the world’s leading independent magazine of contemporary art.

Contemporary artists often claim the mantle of radicalism, declaring that art can not only criticise the status quo but even intervene in social life to effect positive change. Art has become increasingly political in recent decades, and is now often indistinguishable from forms of political activism. But has the demand that art should have political and social effects obscures what makes art good? And have we lost sight of what art is really good for, and what makes it really radical?

About the speaker: Dr JJ Charlesworth is a writer and art critic. He is currently online editor of the London-based international art magazine ArtReview, where he has worked since 2006. Previously, JJ studied fine art at Goldsmiths College, London, in the mid-1990s, before turning his hand to criticism and writing reviews, articles and commentaries for publications such as Art Monthly, Flash Art, Modern Painters, Contemporary, Time Out London, Third Text and the Daily Telegraph newspaper. He is a member of the executive committee of AICA UK.

About The Persuaders: Founded by Alban James and Radiah Ford (née Binns), the Persuaders’ is the Home House Debating Salon.  Swanky and politically incorrect, it offers members and their guests the opportunity to directly engage with thought leaders from politics, the media or the arts, in heated and purposely-chaotic discussions.

Cost: £5 member, £10 guest (all monies to our annual charity, Save the Children UK)

Time/Location: 7.30pm, Etruscan Room

Due to the popularity of our events, we are unable to offer refunds.