Exploring the many ways artists inspire political action and social change, or how art can be socially useful, this day of discussion asks pertinent questions about the intersection for art and politics. How does art function politically? What is activist art? What forms of dissent are possible today, and how do artists manifest political perspectives in their practice?

This is the first of four recordings from this symposium, and features opening remarks from Elizabeth Smith, and a lecture from artist and educator Doug Ashford.

Recorded Saturday, October 25, 2008 at University of Chicago.