Democracy is dangerous. Be part of a dangerous movement.
It allows, it invites, it incites freedom of expression.
Freedom of expression is a dangerous element of democracy that many would rather see removed.
Celebrate democracy.
Express yourself through art.
Join us as the University of Rhode Island's Library in Kingston joins the Art of Democracy (AOD), a national coalition of political art exhibitions all taking place in the Fall of 2008 on the dire state of the American Political Scene.
From the Art of Democracy web site:
”The Art of Democracy chose this time when the nation is particularly politically aware to bring into focus overlooked and underrepresented voices and views on the state of politics, and the state of democracy today. The coalition is growing: we now have exhibitions in several cities, and are seeking new partners and venues, whether at museums or art centers or galleries or cafés. Several groups are currently searching for venues. These are all shows organized under the coalition of the Art of Democracy. There are no requirements to be a part of it, and no fees, The purpose is simple: organize a national (or even international) voice for political art and artists and amplify that voice by the multiple venues and artists all participating at the same time.”

Please participate in this spontaneous day of artistic expression. Bring your talent to the University Library gallery in Kingston on October 5th, 2008 from 2- 10 p.m.– we’ll supply the rest (blank papered wall, crayons, pencils, charcoal, oil and chalk pastels) or bring your own non-liquid medium. Videographers welcome. Questions? Call 874.4632
The art created on this day will be on exhibit until November 1st and later archived, preserving this moment when many people joined together to celebrate the most dangerous and precious element of democracy,
Expression through ART.

In his book, Political Graphics, Art as a Weapon (Abbeville Press, 1982), Robert Philippe states as mass production of graphic iconography developed "political graphics entered into the life of the state as an instrument for glorifying the king...reproducing for the masses conventional images of abundance and prosperity...On the other hand the downtrodden masses soon became aware that graphic reproductions also represented a weapon...for confrontation with authority, an incisive devise for condemning abuses, denouncing injustice and for showing the misery and death that are the results of bad government."