Ep 1. Compassion

Art21: Art in the Twenty-First Century is a critically acclaimed art documentary series that explores contemporary art and artists from the United States and across the world. Season 5 episode 1, titled "Compassion," delves into how a diverse group of artists create work about and in response to current social issues, incorporating themes of empathy and compassion.

The episode begins with artist Doris Salcedo and her powerful installations that evoke feelings of loss, grief and remembrance. Through her work, Salcedo aims to give a voice to silenced and forgotten victims of violence and conflict, such as migrants and the families of the disappeared. The episode continues with a segment featuring William Kentridge, a South African artist who uses his art to examine and confront issues related to apartheid and social justice. Kentridge's work often features animated drawings that explore the complex history and identity of his country.

Next, viewers meet Mexican artist Gabriel Orozco, whose work explores the intersection of nature and human culture. Orozco's art often involves transforming ordinary objects, such as a bicycle or a ping pong table, into works of art that challenge our perception of everyday life. The episode then transitions to Algerian artist Kader Attia, who creates installations and sculptures that examine the cultural and historical connections between Europe and Africa. Attia's work embodies the idea of "repair," or the need to confront and heal the traumatic legacies of colonialism and the slave trade.

Finally, the episode concludes with a segment featuring Iranian artist Shirin Neshat, whose photographs and videos explore the complexities of identity and representation in Islamic society. Neshat's work often features powerful images of Iranian women, with a focus on the struggle for autonomy and self-expression in a restrictive political and social climate.

Throughout the episode, viewers are exposed to the ways in which these artists use their work to provoke critical thinking and inspire empathy and compassion. The featured artists demonstrate the importance of art as a tool for addressing social issues, and the role of artists as cultural commentators and activists. Art21: Art in the Twenty-First Century season 5 episode 1, "Compassion," is a thoughtful and engaging exploration of contemporary art and its ability to inspire empathy and understanding.