There are many daunting challenges that we face as individuals, and as citizens in this wide, weird world. We can easily be overwhelmed by the magnitude of crucial matters that require our attention, and these matters are ever competing with numbing entertainment diversions. Some politically and socially conscious individuals choose to broach crucial subjects through artwork, at once seizing the attention of others and attempting to spark interest and initiative in them.

On Friday, April 12, 5:30-7:30 p.m., University of Rochester's Students for a Democratic Society will host an "Art as Actvism" evening in Morey Hall, room 321 on the River Campus. Panelists will share their thoughts on the intersection between art and activism and reveal how the combination is demonstrated through their art. Speakers include Heather Layton, UR senior lecturer in art, who created an18-foot rhinestone-encrusted drone replica as part of a recent installation exhibit in Massachusetts; Tara Najd Ahmadi, a visual and cultural studies graduate student and artist who is interested in the role of art in political activism; Erich Lehman of 1975 Gallery; and others.

The discussion will be followed by an audience Q&A session. The event is free to attend, and free parking is available in the Rush Rhees Library lot after 5 p.m. Contact [email protected] with questions or for more information.