Open Call for A4CT's First Online Issue
Theme: Freedom of Expression: Why is Power So Afraid of Art?

A4CT (Artivism for Critical Thinking) invites creatives, writers, critics, and anyone driven by the intersection of art and activism to contribute to the launch of our first online issue. The theme is Freedom of Expression: Why is Power So Afraid of Art?. We invite contributors to explore the significance of freedom of expression, the challenges it faces globally, and its connection to art activism. This issue calls for a reflection on why art has long been feared by those in power and how it continues to push boundaries, question authority, and disrupt societal norms.

Contributions are welcome in any form or length. Whether it’s a personal essay, manifesto, poem, short story, academic critique, or experimental text, this is your opportunity to express what burns inside you—what needs to be shared.

In a world where freedom of expression is increasingly under threat—not only in authoritarian regimes but also in democratic societies hiding behind the illusion of freedom—this issue aims to amplify diverse voices and provide a platform to confront and challenge these barriers.

“If there is no freedom of expression, then the beauty of life is lost. Participation in a society is not an artistic choice, it's a human need.”
- Ai Weiwei

This open call is a step toward fostering a borderless community of collaborators. We believe that the power of shared humanity and creativity can challenge polarization, combat fear, and cultivate a culture of critical thinking and care.

As a newly emerging platform, A4CT currently operates on a volunteer basis. While we are unable to offer financial support for contributions at this time, we hope to provide a platform for self-expression and unity.

Submission Details

• Deadline: 28.02.2025
  
  

• Formats: contributions are welcome in any form or length. Whether it’s a personal essay, manifesto, poem, short story, academic critique, or experimental text, this is your opportunity to express what burns inside you—what needs to be shared.

• Theme: Freedom of Expression: Why is Power So Afraid of Art?. We invite contributors to explore the significance of freedom of expression, the challenges it faces globally, and its connection to art activism. This issue calls for a reflection on why art has long been feared by those in power and how it continues to push boundaries, question authority, and disrupt societal norms. 

• Anonymity and pen names: if you prefer not to display your full name, submissions can be made anonymously or under a pen name. We want every voice to feel safe and empowered to share freely.
  
  

• How to submit: send your contributions along with the location you’re writing from (for context) to artivism4ct (at) gmail.com

• Please note: submitted materials will be published as soon as they meet our guidelines.