Abstract
In the digital age, where AI-generated information shapes our access to knowledge, feminist art history plays a crucial role in making overlooked narratives more visible and fostering the evolution of digital archives. This paper examines the activist work of three Hungarian-born photographers—Éva Besnyő, Kati Horna, and Ata Kandó—who, throughout the 20th century, remained deeply committed to the transformative power of art and artistic action. Their work has often been interpreted through the lens of modernist photography, a framework that, while significant, has not fully captured the depth and social engagement of their projects. By exploring the intersection of art and activism, this paper highlights the societal impact of their work and the ways in which their careers challenge conventional narratives. Re-evaluating their contributions offers a deeper understanding of socially engaged art as a means of community building and shared responsibility. Ultimately, this paper argues for a more nuanced appreciation of activist art, emphasizing its aesthetic diversity and conceptual depth.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—From Democratic Aesthetics to Digital Culture
KEYWORDS
Feminist Art History, Digital Archives, Participatory Art, Activist Photography
