Against the Status Quo: Activism, Art and Identity

Drawing from their personal experiences as a queer person, an advocate for Indigenous culture, and a survivor of punitive psychiatry, they will discuss how art becomes a tool of resistance.

Additionally, they will share insights from their ongoing research on structural barriers in the implementation of DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Access, Inclusion) within cultural institutions, focusing on the challenges of decolonization and preserving marginalized voices. This presentation reflects their journey in defying the status quo through art and advocacy.

Alex Syrenova

Alex Syrenova is an arts administrator, curator, and advocate for accessibility and equity in the arts. They are currently part of the Access Programs and Initiatives team at the Whitney Museum of American Art, where they contribute to creating inclusive and accessible art experiences for diverse audiences. Alex’s work centers around using contemporary art as a tool for social change, fostering dialogue between artists and the public, and advancing equitable cultural practices.

Alex is pursuing a Master’s degree in Arts Administration at Columbia University, with a focus on creating responsible cultural management strategies that are interdisciplinary, inclusive, and sustainable. They have curated and participated in over 20 exhibitions, including No Truth and the Moscow Biennale, and have managed the development and opening of a museum focused on Indigenous, non-Eurocentric art.
Alex’s current research explores how arts organizations overcome structural barriers to implement Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) practices, with a particular emphasis on decolonizing institutions and empowering marginalized voices. Their passion lies in advocating for cultural management that is forward-thinking, inclusive, and equitable for both artists and the community.

This event is sponsored by Artivism: The Power of Art for Social Transformation.

Contact

artivism@adelphi.edu