Artist Talk: Taking a stand

Music has played a key role in social activism and various rights movements throughout history. Artists use their art, voice and reach to take a stand and empower their surroundings to make a change for the better. This talk will contain two unique stories of outspoken artists who pave their own way: Ukrainian DJ, music selector and producer Daria Kolomiec is a Ukrainian DJ, music selector, producer, presenter and developer of music-curation app MusiCures. When she found herself huddled in the basement of a café in Kyiv that doubled as a makeshift bomb shelter, that she found her new calling in promoting Ukrainian culture. We talk about artistic and cultural belonging, activism and taking a stand in the war. Future superstar July Jones involves themes like relationships, queerness and mental health in her music. Having established herself as in-demand songwriter, the talented Slovenian musician has now unleashed her own project. We talk about activism, being outspoken around queerness and LGBTQ+ rights, identity as an artist, feminism and being in touch with the fanbase.