The freedom of art is one of the imperatives of every democracy. But does this freedom make art inconsequential? Does art have a role in addressing social issues, promoting social justice, or in defending democracy when it comes under pressure? In short: does art have a political mandate and what is the role of art in weakened democracies?

The Student Council consists of a team of highly engaged, talented, and diverse high school, undergraduate, and graduate students who invite prominent guest speakers to discuss topics relating to art, culture, politics, and society. In conversation with visual artists, musicians, dancers, writers, theater and filmmakers, cultural critics, curators and others, the students will explore how the arts can make a difference in times of social and political crisis; on what social issues they can give new impulses; how they can help shape local communities; and how the alleged freedom and autonomy of the arts might impede or help the arts in terms of social and political significance.

The program takes place live every fourth Wednesday of the month 4.15pm PST, where you can join the Q&A. More details HERE.

Elizabeth Ai is a Chinese-Vietnamese-American Los Angeles-based Emmy award-winning producer who also writes and directs independent narratives as well as branded content for companies such as National Geographic, ESPN, and VICE. She is currently directing and producing two in-progress feature documentaries.