ROUNDTABLE: Poets sometimes use other artists' work as an entry point for addressing societal issues. Visual art can provide a way of triangulating trauma, for example, offering a necessary distance to look at the overwhelming, or provide a unique lens through which to reflect on an overwhelming subject. What ethical and artistic pitfalls must we be mindful of in adopting such strategies? How do we give voice to political upheaval without appropriating others' experiences? What is the role of privilege in having the distance and platform to speak about others who are silenced by history and/or oppression? How have aspects of 21st century media and political environments affected our conception of both ekphrasis and witness? Through short readings and discussion, Ariel Francisco, Brad Richard, Alina Stefanescu, and Andy Young will address these issues and others that may arise. Alina Stefanescu will moderate. 

At New Orleans Poetry Festival 2025.

Sun, 04/13/2025 - 3:00 pm

Location Room 250, New Orleans Healing Center, 2372 St Claude Ave