In this episode, Sundus Abdul Hadi, an artist and writer of Iraqi origin, shares her journey, discussing how the Iraq War shaped her political consciousness and artistic practice. The conversation delves into the role of art in social change, the importance of community, and the challenges within the North American art world. Sundus emphasizes the need for persistence over resistance and the significance of creating inclusive spaces.
Timestamps
Guest Introduction (00:01:26)
Introduction of Sundus Abdul Hadi, highlighting her background and artistic contributions.
Understanding Impact (00:03:49)
Sundus reflects on how her understanding of making an impact has evolved over time.
Transformation of Impact (00:09:39)
Sundus explains her journey from loud activism to a more calculated approach for lasting impact.
Art as Resistance (00:12:09)
Discussion on defining resistance and the importance of persistence in activism.
Culture Over Commerce (00:15:51)
Sundar emphasizes prioritizing culture and systemic change over capitalist approaches.
Student Engagement (00:23:58)
Comparison of student engagement in art and social change courses between Iraq and North America.
Awakening Through Art (00:27:18)
Discussion on the importance of art in revitalizing life and addressing societal pain.
Cultivating Spaces for Community (00:35:01)
Sundus shares her views on the significance of community spaces in fostering connection and identity.
Creating Safe Spaces (00:44:50)
Sundus reflects on the complexities of safety in community spaces and the responsibility to maintain inclusivity.
Creative Life Force and Burnout (00:47:26)
Sundus shares her struggles with creativity and burnout, emphasizing the need for self-care and ritual in daily life.
--
Sundus Abdul Hadi is an artist and writer of Iraqi origin. She was raised and educated in Tiohtià:ke/Montréal, where she earned a BFA in Studio Arts and Art History and a MA in Media Studies. Articulated through her artistic practice, writing and curation, Sundus’ work is a sensitive reflection on trauma, struggle, and care. She is the author/illustrator of Shams, a children’s book about trauma, transformation and healing. Her book titled “Take Care of Your Self: The Art and Cultures of Care and Liberation” (Common Notions, November 2020) is a non-fiction book about care, curation and community. She is the cofounder of We Are The Medium, an artist collective and culture point. In 2022, she founded Makaba Bookshop in the old port of Montreal.
Episode Resources:
Sundus Abdul Hadi: Personal Website
If you are curious about what it would look like to work with a social impact coach, reach out to me on pauseimpact.org