Neosho Arts Council schedules free screening of arts film

(From Neosho Arts Council)

Neosho Arts Council will be holding a free screening of “Art21 Bodies of Knowledge” October 26 at the Neosho Newton County Library. After the film Crowder College art instructor Josh Novak will lead attendees in a short discussion on the artists featured in the film.

“Participating in the arts doesn’t just mean creating art, it means engaging with the arts,” said Sarah Serio, President of Neosho Arts Council. “This film and discussion is a great way for the community to participate.”

Viewers will have the opportunity to experience an in-the-moment Guerrilla Girls intervention staged in front of major New York City museums; the creative process behind Hank Willis Thomas’ new public sculpture, “The Embrace;” Anicka Yi’s flying, AI-controlled “aerobe” machines at the Tate’s Turbine Hall in London; and Tauba Auerbach’s two-person, interdependent pump organ, Auerglass.

Novak hopes attendees will bring an open mind about what art is and what it can bring for society.

“Art discussions are important because understanding and appreciating art is essential. It is foundational to who we are as a species. The less we talk about art, especially contemporary art, the more it can seem nonsensical or unimportant, but in reality it can be one of the most human things we can experience,” he said.

No prior knowledge of the film or the featured artists is needed to attend the screening and take part in the discussion. “We want everyone to be able to join us, learn something, engage with the creative process, and leave with a greater appreciation for the artists featured,” Serio said. 

“Even if attendees don’t want to actively take part in the discussion they will be able to gain a better understanding of the featured artists and our community’s response to them.”

The screening is free to attend and open to all ages but the content and discussion may be more suitable to those 14 and older. The film starts at 7:00pm and will be shown inside the Community Room of the Neosho Newton County Library (201 West Spring St., Neosho, MO 64850). Visit neoshoarts.net for more details.