NEWS COVERAGE ON ‘ARTIVISM’ AND PROTEST ART IN THE HIJABPROTESTS OF IRAN AND KARNATAKA

Abstract

Performing arts have been popular during different periods of conflict throughout history, and have often played an important role to the communities during difficult times. Artivism (aka art activism) and protest arts have become increasingly prominent forms of protest in recent times, as they provide a powerful platform for artists to address issues and mobilize support. In early 2022, a group of Muslim women in India were asked to remove their hijabs for identification purposes during a school examination, which eventually led to the Karnataka State restricting hijabs in educational institutions. The incident sparked outrage among the Muslim community and led to a wider debate about religious freedom and
discrimination in India. Months later, the women of Iran engaged in anti-hijab protests moral policing and the custodial death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini for not wearing hijab properly. Art has played a crucial role in hijab protests, serving as a platform for women to express their experiences and challenge their restrictions. Social media has also played a significant
role with artivists using them to connect with wider audiences. The form, medium and impact of artivism or protest art in these women-led protests is elucidated in this study by analyzing the news coverage on arts and artists in hijab row