Japanese / English
Artivism: How participatory fiction is more transformative than documenting reality
RESERVATION REQUIRED
- 2026.4.20
- 10:00–17:00
Kurochiku Tenshokan 2F
©︎ FIFV Festival Chile
The relationship between activism and visual expression is longstanding. Its practice extends far beyond the realms of journalism and documentary, reaching into art and commercial fields as well. In these contexts, numerous works have emerged that not only address their subject matter but also deliberately embed a clear agenda in the way the message is conveyed.
Such works are the result of sustained experimentation, an ongoing search for narratives that can draw public attention to serious subjects that, at times, are visually unengaging. At their core lies a simple challenge: presenting a grave issue in an equally grave manner rarely garners attention.
Why, then, do works of fiction created in collaboration with those directly affected by social issues often resonate more deeply than nonfiction produced by those who are not?
This masterclass explores both the conceptual and practical tools required to visualise sustainable activism effectively. It aims to examine how visual expression can heighten public engagement with the society we inhabit. Participants will explore how participatory fiction, collaboration, and narrative strategy can create meaningful social impact.
Not limited to photographers and filmmakers, this masterclass is open to visual artists of all disciplines (e.g., illustrators, graphic designers) as well as researchers and academics, media professionals, NPO practitioners, social workers, and others who seek new ways to communicate social realities with impact.
Such works are the result of sustained experimentation, an ongoing search for narratives that can draw public attention to serious subjects that, at times, are visually unengaging. At their core lies a simple challenge: presenting a grave issue in an equally grave manner rarely garners attention.
Why, then, do works of fiction created in collaboration with those directly affected by social issues often resonate more deeply than nonfiction produced by those who are not?
This masterclass explores both the conceptual and practical tools required to visualise sustainable activism effectively. It aims to examine how visual expression can heighten public engagement with the society we inhabit. Participants will explore how participatory fiction, collaboration, and narrative strategy can create meaningful social impact.
Not limited to photographers and filmmakers, this masterclass is open to visual artists of all disciplines (e.g., illustrators, graphic designers) as well as researchers and academics, media professionals, NPO practitioners, social workers, and others who seek new ways to communicate social realities with impact.
- Important Notice
- 申し込み、問い合わせは[email protected]まで
Lecturer Lecturer
-
Federico Estol
©︎Victoria Gallarreta
Federico Estol is a Uruguayan photographer and visual artist whose long-term projects explore the intersections of cultural identity, inequality, and social justice. Grounded in participatory visual practices and popular education, he works collaboratively with communities, positioning photography as a tool for social transformation. Before becoming a photographer, he spent 15 years as a rural activist and community organiser.
Influenced by the philosophies of Paulo Freire and Augusto Boal, Estol employs photography as a process of healing and collective participation. In recent years, he has advocated for ethical, non-extractive storytelling while developing circular models that leverage the art market and photography industry to improve the living conditions of the communities he engages with.
His work has been presented internationally at venues and festivals including Les Rencontres d’Arles, Kunsthal Rotterdam, FORMAT Festival (UK), the Benaki Museum, Angkor Photo Festival, Head On Photo Festival, LagosPhoto, Chennai Photo Biennale, and the Montevideo Photography Center, among others.
Date 日時
2026.4.2010:00–17:00
Venue 会場
Kurochiku Tenshokan 2F
- Address
-
380 Mukadeya-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto, 604-8214
- Access
-
7 minute walk from Karasuma Station on the Hankyu Kyoto Line, 7 minute walk from Shijo Station on the Subway Karasuma Line
Fees 料金
20,000円