When Art Goes Wrong: A Graduate Discourse on the Collision Between Culture and the Law

Friday, April 24 from 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Runyan Rehearsal Hall
Colorado State University Center for the Arts

Graduate students will present their research in three panels:

Who Owns Hopi Culture?
Many indigenous peoples allege that sacred cultural artifacts have been stolen, improperly used and displayed, or other- wise compromised. This panel looks at the specific case of Hopi cultural artifacts recently placed for auction at Sotheby’s in France. Panelists take a closer look at the legal issues relating to cultural artifacts, cultural ownership and cultural property, as well as the cultural rights of indigenous peoples.

The Fall and Rise of Marion True and the Getty Museum
Pillaging of archeological sites, the taking of antique treasures, and the growth of a black market for antiquities in past centuries has led many nations to seek international legal remedy for return of cultural property. This panel looks at the case of the Getty Museum and curator Marion True, accused by the Italian government of stealing priceless Italian antiq- uities. This panel offers insight into: the Italian legal system, the internal policies of wealthy American museums and the foundations that guide them, the social and political aspects of antiquities collection, and the creation of a thriving antiquities black market.

Is Freedom of Expression Dead? The Aftermath of Charlie Hebdo
On January 7 of this year gunmen in Paris massacred cartoonists in the offices of the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. The incident sparked heated discussions about freedom of expression, hate speech, cultural rights, and other issues. This panel looks at the evolving ideals of freedom of speech and expression against the backdrop of social, cultural, and legal issues.

Each panel is followed by a Q&A with the audience. This event includes a reception, networking opportunities, and a showcase of graduate student works.