The Artists' Network of Amnesty International
Organization profile published 1986
Year Published: 1986
Resource Type: Organization
Cx Number: CX3083
Abstract:
The ARTISTS' NETWORK is the first Amnesty International group to focus attention on imprisoned artists. Formed in 1981, the network has focused on painters, sculptors, musicians, actors, dancers and others engaged in artisitic pursuits. It holds regular meetings, and has organized a number of benefits exhibitions, concerts, and plays to raise money for Amnesty work.
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Amnesty's Canadian section last year, the network produced three limited-edition prints by Canadian artists. Well known Canadian artists such as comic Dave Broadfoot, musician Anton Kuerti, and singer Nancy White have supported the network.
Artisits are often the first to be persecuted because they express the aspirations of their people, the network says. One member wrote: "When journalist Karel Kynci was released from prison in Czechosiovakia after she wrote letters to him, I felt I had personally helped free him."
Amnesty International has more than 350,000 members in 150 countries. Since 1961 it has helped release 15,000 prisoners of conscience.
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