Visible Voices: Raising Awareness on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through Art and Design Practices

Abstract

Aim of the Study: This paper seeks to underscore the importance of creative approaches in addressing social issues and proposes potential solutions through creative engagement. Pakistan has consistently ranked 2^nd last in the global gender gap index for many years. So, it is imperative to see the role of art in highlighting the gender-based inequalities in society. This paper highlights the phenomenon of gender-based violence (GBV) through the lens of art and design. This paper proposes that the phenomenon of GBV can be highlighted more effectively through art and can help raise awareness on the issue. Through visuals, the audience can be effectively engaged and can propose efficient mediations.

Methodology: A qualitative case study research design was employed to analyze the chosen artifacts. Analysis was mainly based on the depiction of gender-based violence in the art pieces. Both national and international artifacts were chosen, and their impacts on the world and society were discussed.

Findings: An illustrative example is found in the Caribbean through the Engendered project, which involves singers and public art practitioners. This initiative received support from the United Nations Development Fund. Similarly, the ‘Fearless Collective’, initiated in 2012 in India and expanded to 12 countries, including Pakistan, co-creates impactful public art to support women's rights and reclaim their due spaces.

Conclusion: Through a critical analysis of various examples suggesting Dual Coding Theory (Paivio1986), the paper emphasized the significance of art and design practices and their engagement in mitigating the risk of GBV in Pakistan.