Artwork "Territorios" Sheds Light on Human Rights Defenders

Bogotá, September 7, 2023 – On a vibrant Saturday evening, September 2, the Center for Justice and International Law (CEJIL), in collaboration with the Arte dos Gráfico workshop, unveiled a artistic creation titled “Territorios”- Spanish for “Territories”- in Bogotá. This artwork brings to life the stories, struggles, and extraordinary contributions of ten fearless activists who sacrificed their lives defending critical causes such as environmental preservation, human rights, non-violence, and democracy in their respective regions. 

“Territories” is not just a work of art; it’s a beacon of hope and awareness. Latin America, often heralded for its rich culture and diverse landscapes, is also one of the most perilous regions for human rights defenders. In the face of these daunting challenges, CEJIL has taken the initiative to spotlight their courage, encouraging vital discussions on their protection and safety. 

The art world was first introduced to “Territories” during the residency of renowned artists Marcelo Brodsky from Argentina and Fernando Bryce from Peru at El Espacio 23, a cutting-edge contemporary art venue in Miami, back in June 2022. Since then, CEJIL has collaborated closely with these visionary artists to weave the compelling narratives of activists such as Marielle Franco from Brazil, Berta Cáceres from Honduras, Hugo Torres from Nicaragua, Myrna Mack from Guatemala, and Marisela Escobedo, whose cases received critical legal assistance from CEJIL. 

Now, “Territories” has been reborn in Colombia, not just as a work of art but as an artist’s book. A limited edition of 60 copies contains 13 original pieces, each personally signed by Brodsky and Bryce. Some of these remarkable artworks will travel to different cities for exhibition, while others will be available for purchase to raise essential funds for the safeguarding and advocacy of human rights defenders. Upcoming exhibitions are already confirmed in Argentina, Colombia, the United States, and Spain. 

Both Bryce and Brodsky have a singular goal: to bridge the gap between the call for social and environmental justice and the world of protest art and photojournalism. “Territories” offers a unique opportunity to enrich the legacy of human rights defenders in the region through the language of art. Viviana Krsticevic, Executive Director of CEJIL, shared her perspective on the project during the Bogotá launch: “We believe in the power of ‘Territories’ to transcend activism and advocacy, expanding the discourse on rights and the essence of democracy. These are the battlegrounds we face in the Americas, and the artistry of Brodsky and Bryce sends a resounding message of strength, creativity, and remembrance that inspires us to continue the work of those who are no longer with us.” 

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For more information on upcoming exhibitions, presentations, and the opportunity to acquire these remarkable artworks, please reach out to Daniel Pinilla, Director of Communications at CEJIL, at dpinilla@cejil.org . This initiative is a testament to CEJIL’s commitment to bridging the worlds of art and human rights, a powerful endeavor that deserves our support.