Seeds of Hate and Hope

Co-exhibitors:

Mona Hatoum, William Kentridge, Hew Locke, Zoran Mušič, Peter Oloya, Kimberly Fulton Orozco and Indrė Šerpytytė

 

Seeds of Hate and Hope presented personal artistic responses to global mass atrocities, such as genocides, ethnic cleansing, war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The exhibition featured artists including Mona Hatoum, William Kentridge, Zoran Mušič, Peter Oloya, Kimberly Fulton Orozco and Indrė Šerpytytė, it explored how, throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, artists have witnessed, experienced and responded to atrocity crimes and conflicts with compelling artworks. Drawing courage and inspiration from personal experience as well as shared histories, they have reacted to these events for many reasons, including but not limited to bearing witness, expressing grief and promoting healing.

Intending to raise awareness about global conflicts and the role of art in confronting their legacy, this exhibition highlighted artistic responses to such devastating events with creativity and courage. It featured artworks which are reflections of, rather than images of, violence or victims, and which challenge the typical depictions of war and conflict often shown in the media.

Through its diverse body of work, Seeds of Hate and Hope examined how both individual and collective acts of resistance and resilience often emerge in times of conflict. The exhibition emphasised the vital role that human empathy and respect play in safeguarding society against the destructive forces of prejudice, hate speech, discrimination and dehumanisation. Each artwork became a catalyst for healing – promoting tolerance and understanding across cultures, religions and identities.

Curated by Tafadzwa Makwabarara, Curator of Cultural Empowerment at the Sainsbury Centre and Jelena Sofronijevic, independent curator, writer and producer of the EMPIRE LINES podcast.