Women Are Heroes
The image of conflict and violence in the developing world has not just becoming too familiar, but reflects nothing aside from the sheer scale of the problems. Often anonymous, they leave those who have experienced violence faceless. This is made most clear with women, where sexual violence is used as a weapon of war. However, there are those who don’t want this to be women’s only story.
JR is a French artist who combines his love of street art with the belief that art can change the world. JR’s was the winner of the 2011 TED prize, where he made his wish to ‘turn the world…INSIDE OUT.’ His projects are grand and extensive, covering areas from Kenya to India. JR’s project is simple. Giving people a new face, but not the one we have become so accustomed to. You can see a trailer to the film here.
In his film, Women are Heroes, JR helps tell the story of women who have suffered conflict. Posting giant pictures of people pulling funny faces doesn’t initially sound like human rights activism, but in reality, his work is deeply moving. JR’s work forced conventional media into areas they might not normally go. After posting a giant image of a woman on steps in Rio de Janeiro, the media was curious about JR’s project. They were forced into Favela Morro Da Providencia, an area long trouble with drug-related gang violence, and had to speak to the women there due to JR’s absence. The image was of a woman whose grandson was murdered, desperate to have her story told.
Not only has JR’s project helped to relay stories, but it’s been a practical exercise as well. In Kenya, images were posted on rooftops using vinyl instead of paper to help keep the rain out. Naturally, they were very popular.
JR’s wish was to ‘turn the world…INSIDE OUT,’ has led to the creation of a global art project that anyone can take part in. The Inside Out Project calls on people to get their pictures and their messages out there. JR asks ‘Can art change the world?’. Why not see for yourself- take part in his art movement here.
