Art and democracy : exploring new ways to work creatively with citizens.

Abstract

For democracy to work as it should, three fundamental elements are needed: engaged citizens, communities that act together, and institutions with legitimacy that empower citizens. But when this does not happen, it is necessary to look for new ways to introduce citizens to the exercise of democratic practices. To that effect, this article seeks to explore the potential of art to motivate and empower citizens, as well as entire communities, through techniques ranging from Theatre of the Oppressed to Participatory Public Art.

Keywords

• Public art
• Democratic practices
• Theater of the oppressed
• Public deliberation
• Cultural practices