On January 7, 2025, I was deeply honored to receive a voucher for the exhibition “We the (Discarded) People: Welfare or Warfare?” by Lebanese-American artist Prof. Chawky Frenn during a dinner gathering. This remarkable exhibition, held at Bharat Kala Bhawan, was more than an artistic showcase—it was a profound exploration of democracy, human rights, and justice.
Earlier, on December 19, 2024, I had the privilege of witnessing this exhibition with Mr. Ajitesh Rai at Bharat Kala Bhawan. The exhibition, curated by Prof. Pradosh Mishra and managed by Prof. Suresh K. Nair, delved into themes of systemic oppression, economic disparity, and the commodification of democracy and war. The day also included the Visual Voices for Peace exhibition at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), showcasing collaborative work by students mentored by Prof. Frenn.
Art as a Medium for Justice
Prof. Frenn, a Fulbright Scholar and Associate Professor at George Mason University, uses his art to challenge entrenched power structures and amplify marginalized voices. His series, “We the (Discarded) People,” critiques the betrayal of democratic ideals and the commodification of war, urging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths.
Democracy for Sale
One of his standout series, Democracy for Sale, exposes the erosion of democracy by corporate greed. Drawing on historical and contemporary insights, Frenn critiques how unchecked capitalism undermines governance, echoing Abraham Lincoln’s warning about corporate dominance and modern critiques by Bernie Sanders and Barack Obama. The series challenges us to reclaim democracy as a tool for public welfare rather than private profit.
The War Dividend
In The War Dividend, Frenn interrogates the economic motives behind perpetual war. His art reflects George Orwell’s assertion that “war is peace” in the manipulative language of power. Figures like Smedley Butler and Ernest Hemingway, who exposed the profiteering mechanisms of war, find powerful expression in his work. Frenn’s critique resonates deeply with Mahatma Gandhi’s poignant question: “What difference does it make to the dead…whether the destruction is wrought under the name of liberty or democracy?”
Reflections in Junputh
Inspired by Frenn’s work, I shared my reflections in a Hindi column on Junputh titled “Chawky Frenn in Benares and the Indian Context of His Paintings.” Writing in Hindi allowed me to connect with grassroots communities who live the realities depicted in Frenn’s art. I explored how his themes of systemic oppression parallel the struggles of marginalized communities in India, from caste discrimination to economic exploitation.
Visual Voices for Peace
At BHU, the Visual Voices for Peace exhibition showcased the creativity of students addressing themes of identity, justice, and solidarity. Their works, inspired by global art movements and local realities, reflected the transformative power of art in fostering empathy and dialogue. This initiative mirrored the grassroots activism of organizations like JanMitra Nyas and PVCHR, which challenge exploitation while fostering hope and resilience.
A Dinner of Unity
On January 9, 2025, Prof. Chawky Frenn hosted a poignant gathering titled “Last Supper” at Roma’s Cafe in Varanasi. Attendees included:
Prof. Chawky Frenn – Renowned artist and peace advocate.
Prof. Pradosh Mishra – Visionary curator and academic.
Prof. Suresh K. Nair – Celebrated artist and JanMitra Award recipient.
Mr. Parnab Mukherjee – Curator and cultural luminary.
Mr. Lenin Raghuvanshi – Human rights defender and founder of PVCHR.
The evening blended artistic discussions, shared meals, and reflections on the collective mission of peace-building. Prof. Frenn’s heartfelt message to me—“You are my brothers, you are my community of peace building. I love you ЁЯЩП❤️”—captured the spirit of unity that defined the gathering.
From Global Insights to Local Struggles
Frenn’s art resonates profoundly with the realities of marginalized communities in India. Stories like that of Fula Devi in Varanasi, who transformed her family’s well-being through a kitchen garden initiative supported by JanMitra Nyas, mirror the themes in his work. Such grassroots empowerment initiatives embody the dignity and agency championed in Frenn’s art.
A Call to Action
Frenn’s exhibitions compel us to question our role in perpetuating systemic inequalities. His art serves as both critique and catalyst, reminding us of John Lewis’s words: “Peace cannot exist where justice is not served.”
At the grassroots level, initiatives like those of JanMitra Nyas and PVCHR challenge exploitation and foster resilience. They align with Frenn’s vision of democracy serving all people and peace prioritizing human dignity over economic gain.
Reclaiming Democracy and Humanity
As global citizens, we must embrace the transformative potential of art and activism. Whether through creative expression, grassroots initiatives, or collective advocacy, the path to a just and equitable future begins with our willingness to act.
Prof. Frenn’s painting on indigenous struggles, gifted to me, symbolizes the profound connection between art and advocacy. It inspires a vision of democracy that serves humanity and a commitment to peace that prioritizes justice.
The question remains: Will we rise to fulfill the promise of “We the People”? Together, let us ensure that art and action lead us toward a future marked by equality, justice, and enduring peace.
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