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decibel is holding an international two-day visual arts conference, A Free State, at the British Museum on March 18 and 19, 2004.
The conference aims to create a space for artists and innovators to redefine the visual arts landscape. “Space can take on a literal and figurative meaning in visual arts practice. For culturally diverse artists battling against marginalisation, the yearning for space can take on more personal meanings”, says Gaylene Gould, Conference Co-ordinator.

A Free State will bring together leading filmmakers, visual artists, architects, cultural thinkers and the audience to recreate the creative landscape. By imagining a vision of freedom in their creative practice, they will attempt to build a literal ‘freedom space’. Each day will feature on-stage interviews with artists, a range of think tanks debating issues such as freedom of speech, equity, re-imagining viewership and creating value for work. The UK premiere screening of Melvin Van Peebles’ film, Badaass, which was the runaway success of the Sundance Film Festival, and installations by leading visual artists will also be included.

Over 50 international speakers are expected to attend, including British architect, David Adjaye; Senegalese curator, Ery Camara; researcher/ writer, Kodwo Eshun; and American filmmakers Melvin and Mario Van Peebles. decibel will provide five bursary places per region for culturally diverse artists for whom charge may be a barrier. More information is available through decibel regional officers.

For further information about the event call Arts Council England on 0845 300 6200. Tickets (£35 for two days including screenings/£20 concessions) can be booked through the British Museum box office on 020 7323 8181.

Find extra information about the visual arts platform at http://www.decibel-db.org

The decibel page is prepared by Arts Council England. Find extra information at http://www.decibel-db.org

Denrele Ogunwa is Communications Officer for Arts Council England’s decibel project. t: 020 7973 6421; e: denrele.ogunwa@artscouncil.org.uk