Name: How art can shape America's conversation about freedom
Uploaded: 2018-08-27T14:54:26Z
Duration: 4 min 22 s
Description: In this quick talk, visual artist Dread Scott tells the story of one of his most transgressive art installations, which drew national attention for its controversial use of the American flag and led to a landmark First Amendment case in the US Supreme Court.

Dread Scott: How art can shape America's conversation about freedom

How art can shape America's conversation about freedom

In this quick talk, visual artist Dread Scott tells the story of one of his most transgressive art installations, which drew national attention for its controversial use of the American flag and led to a landmark First Amendment case in the US Supreme Court.

Radical art can ignite fierce debate and even reshape national law. One provocative installation invited people to step on the American flag and share their responses, sparking public outrage, death threats, and condemnation from a sitting president. The artwork’s controversy led to a Supreme Court decision that affirmed freedom of expression. Art can challenge deeply held beliefs and give voice to those who feel ignored.