Wednesday, November 5, 2025

Assignment 11/5 - Zeyad Elshikh

Quote 1: “We all come to this practice with different histories and experiences that inform our approach as artistic activists.”

This resonated with me because it reminds me that my background influences how I create and advocate. I don’t need to separate my identity or experiences from my art. This is what gives my work depth and purpose. My Haitian roots, upbringing, and life experiences all shape the way I express myself and connect with others through my art.

Quote 2: "As any good teacher can attest, rote learning lasts only about as long as the next test. If you want your students to remember the lesson, and to integrate it into their lives, they need to puzzle through it, process it, and make it their own."

This quote means to teach rather than lecture. It interests me because I interpret it as guiding others through clear instruction and example, instead of just talking at them or giving a speech.


Chapt. 4

Quote 1: "Popular culture is fantasy stories, not literary fiction; it’s pop lyrics, not poetry readings. It’s Batman movies, home makeover shows on TV, Minecraft, Fortnite, and Call of Duty video games, People and OK magazines, and, of course, videos featuring cats doing all sorts of cute things. It’s entertainment, not art. But pop culture serves the same function as high Culture: it is a representation of society as it is or aspires to be. And like high Culture, it in turn becomes a model for how society thinks and behaves. What differentiates high Culture from popular culture mainly comes down to this: pop culture is popular."

This quote explores the idea of pop culture, which serves as a form of entertainment but can also fulfill the same role as high culture. It reflects society both as it truly is and as it aspires to be.

Quote 2: “By listening to the stories that people already tell themselves, we can begin to figure out how to fit our facts into their stories.”

This makes me reflect on the importance of meeting people where they are. Rather than trying to change someone’s perspective right away, it’s more meaningful to understand the beliefs and stories they already hold, and then relate my message to those. It’s a reminder to listen before speaking.

Widewalls Article

"Botero fascinates with his exaggerated forms. His unique style blends social criticism, humor, and sensuality in a body of work that is instantly recognizable."

Botero’s art captivates me through its unique combination of social commentary, humanity, and sensuality. This fusion gives his work a deeper meaning, inviting viewers to engage in reflection and conversation.

"These very challenges helped forge the artists she would ultimately become"

Even with all the hardships she went through, she managed to rise above them, and those struggles played a key role in shaping her growth as an artist.

Hispanic Executive Interview

“Art can help us reflect on our memories and experiences.”

It reflects the reason I create art. Through my work, I navigate my own experiences and emotions, and I hope it offers the same insight or resonance to others. Our memories influence who we are, and art provides a way to explore and feel them more profoundly.

“Conversations have shifted around defining social practice.”

People are beginning to reconsider the purpose and impact of art in society. I relate to this perspective because I’ve realized that art can be more than something to observe - can engage participants, foster healing, and encourage reflection. It has the potential to drive meaningful change in the real world.


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Final Intervention Project

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