Wednesday, April 2, 6-9 pm
Asia Society and Museum

As the specter of a new war looms in the Middle East, Iraq and Iran have been increasingly demonized in American public discourse. Perhaps more so than its historic Iraqi foe, Iran has long held a peculiar sway on American imagination. From the picturesque reign of the Shahs to the somber days of the Islamic revolution, Iran has continued to fascinate and unsettle the United States. Glib branding, however, has too often cast a dark veil on an accurate comprehension of the complex forces at play within the country.

Away from political and journalistic spin, the institute for cultural diplomacy wishes to present another, more intimate face of Iran. On the eve of an unpredictable maelstrom, what misinformed images do we have of one another? And how can cultural mediums provide us with more accurate and humane mutual perceptions?

Film and Politics

In the first New York edition of the icd Forum for Young Leaders (FYL) series, we will focus on film and politics in Iran. Film has been the most relevant form of contemporary cultural production in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Richard Peña, Program Director of the Film Society of Lincoln Center and the New York Film Festival, is an expert on Iranian film. He will present contemporary Iranian cinema and the role films play in shifting perceptions of Iranian society both within and beyond the Middle East. Famed Iranian artist Shirin Neshat will screen one of her acclaimed short films and discuss the political substance she imparts to her work. Nasser Hadian, professor of law and political science at Tehran University, will sketch a portrait of Iran “on the ground” – its contemporary political dynamics, its youth, and its own versatile perceptions of the West and the United States.

icd promotes non-partisan political rapprochement through in-depth cultural exchange. The Forum for Young Leaders Program builds on a network of young professionals, motivated students, actors, and artists worldwide. This FYL event will be co-sponsored by the American Iranian Council and the Asia Society and Museum.

We hope to see you at this next icd conference.

Details

Date: Wednesday, April 2, 2003, 6–9 pm, including a small reception

Place: Asia Society and Museum, 725 Park Ave. at 70th Street, New York, NY.

Language: English

RSVP

Please register by e-mail, by March 30:
nyforum4youngleaders@culturaldiplomacy.org

This event is free to the public.