National identity in global culture events reflects political tensions and systemic fragmentation
Original framing: “From Eurovision to the Venice Biennale, culture contests are being overshadowed by politics” — The Guardian - World
The tension between art and politics is not new. Throughout history, art has been both a tool of resistance and a vehicle for state propaganda. The current framing ignores historical parallels such as the use of art in the Cold War and colonial exhibitions.
The current framing of cultural events as political battlegrounds reflects a narrow Western perspective that overlooks the deeper systemic forces shaping global art.
By integrating indigenous knowledge, historical context, and cross-cultural perspectives, we can see that art is not just a reflection of political tensions but a potential tool for transformation. Decentralizing cultural institutions and promoting dialogue across cultures can help address the structural inequalities that marginalize certain voices. The role of art in shaping identity and resistance is not new, but it requires a more inclusive and systemic approach to realize its full potential. By learning from diverse traditions and fostering collaboration, we can move beyond the binary of art and politics and towards a more holistic understanding of cultural expression.