Inaugural Festival Event

Navigating the Intersection of Art and Activism: Insights from the Women, Life, Freedom Film Festival

Recently, I had the incredible honour of speaking on a panel titled “Art, Politics, and the Artist’s Dilemma” at the inaugural Women, Life, Freedom Film Festival. This event was not only a celebration of women’s rights but also a platform for meaningful discussions on the role of art in political discourse.

As a guest panelist, I shared my journey producing the short animated documentary Meteor with Director Atefeh Khademoloreza and the upcoming feature film Eclipse. Both projects delve into the complexities and struggles faced by individuals in Iran, a topic close to my heart as someone with Iranian roots who grew up in Canada. 

One of the key themes we explored was the inherent risk that comes with creating art that challenges the status quo. For our film’s director, making Meteor was particularly perilous; the stakes were high, both personally and professionally. Yet, this risk is what makes the work meaningful. Art has the power to shine a light on struggles that often go unseen, and for me, it’s crucial to elevate the voices of those in Iran who are fighting for their rights.

I was joined by esteemed filmmaker Babak Payami (752 Is Not A Number) and Shahrzad Mojab from the University of Toronto, both of whom brought their unique perspectives and invaluable insights to the conversation while journalist Nickie Shobeiry moderated. Together, we discussed the challenges artists face when navigating the delicate balance between creative expression and political activism.

Attending the festival reminded me of the strength and resilience of women worldwide. It reinforced the idea that art is not just a form of expression; it is a powerful tool for advocacy and change. I left feeling inspired and energized, with a renewed commitment to using my work to highlight the stories that matter.

The experience also highlighted the importance of community in these conversations. Engaging with fellow artists and activists fosters a space where we can share our struggles, successes, and hopes for the future.

As we move forward, I encourage everyone to support artists who dare to take risks for the sake of truth and justice. By amplifying these voices, we can create a ripple effect of awareness and change.

Thank you to the Women, Life, Freedom Film Festival for this opportunity. I am excited to continue this journey of storytelling and advocacy, and I hope to see more spaces created for these vital discussions.

~ Sholeh Alemi Fabbri, Founder of GMP