[Talk show] Unlocking international law

An evening of art, music, and conversation

Have you ever wondered how international law shapes your world? Join us for an evening of inspiring art, moving music, thought-provoking poetry, and lively discussions as we explore these powerful forces in a new light. This special event, “Unlocking international law”, co-organised by the Asser Institute and the KABK, brings together artists, legal experts, and you for an engaging exploration of justice, at a time where the international legal order is severely under pressure.

The exhibition "Lens on Law: Edges of proximity" features the work of photographers Salome Erni, Daria Radu, and Anastasia Troshkova from The Royal Academy of Art The Hague (KABK). The artists have spent time at the Asser Institute, a research centre for international and European law, exploring the visual dimensions of international law and creating art that invites us to see law in a whole new way.

The evening begins with a keynote by Sofia Stolk (VU Amsterdam), ‘Law in the eye of the beholder: how visuals shape our world order’ Sofia, an expert on the intersection of international law and art, will explore how the way we visualise law – from the buildings where it's made to its presence online – shapes our understanding of it, and the other way around.

Next, enjoy an acoustic performance by singers Miray and Cas, featuring the protest song ‘A matter of habit’ by Norwegian folk singer Moddi, and ‘Imagine’, John Lennon’s utopian dream about unity, brotherhood and peace, and an original song by Cas.

After a short break, prepare to be moved by a poetry recital by Sena Aydin that delves into the paradox of international law: its seeming detachment from everyday life, yet its profound impact on individuals and societies. Powerful images will accompany the performance, deepening our connection to the themes of justice and accessibility.

A talkshow will follow, featuring photographers Salome Erni, Daria Radu, Anastasia Troshkova and legal scholars Carl Emilio Lewis, Stephanie Triefus, and Tarik Gherbaoui, who mentored the artists during their residencies at the Asser Institute. Together, they will explore how art can highlight the human dimensions of law while also interrogating its accessibility, transparency, and societal impact. While international law establishes rules, art serves as a space for questioning and bending them. Could this intersection of law and art spark innovative thinking and fresh perspectives on global challenges, leading to more creative and effective solutions? Curiosity piqued? Get your burning questions ready for the Q&A.

Throughout the evening, we will get creative! There will be art supplies on hand, including old law books you can creatively transform, so you can share your thoughts and feelings about international law and justice.

This free event in West Den Haag, in the former US Embassy, is open to everyone – legal academics and practitioners, students, artists, and anyone curious about the world around us.

Join us for an evening that promises to broaden your understanding of international law and justice through art.

Programme:

18.30 – 19.30
Registrations open Visit the exhibition Lens on law: Edges of proximity
19.30 – 19.35
Opening speech by Christophe Paulussen (Asser Institute)
19.35 – 20.00
Keynote by Sofia Stolk (VU Amsterdam) ‘Law in the eye of the beholder: how visuals shape our world order’
20.00 – 20.15
Live music by Miray and Cas
20.15 – 20.30
Break and interactive art
20.30 – 20.40
Poetry recital by Sena Aydin
20.40 - 21.30
Talk show: Uncut
With Carl Emilio Lewis, Stephanie Triefus, Tarik Gherbaoui (Asser Institute) and artists Salome Erni, Daria Radu, Anastasia Throskova (KABK)
21.30 – 22.00
Q & A, closing remarks, interactive session with the installation, an opportunity to revisit the exhibition, enjoy a drink and engage with the artists and researchers.

Cultuurhaven is a new platform aimed at fostering connections between city residents and the established cultural field. Through collaboration and exchange across various cultural levels, the project promotes a more inclusive, accessible, and dynamic arts sector in The Hague’s Museumkwartier. Cultuurhaven is organised by West Den Haag, located in the former US Embassy. Do you have ideas or want to learn more? Get in touch with Chloë van Diepen at chloe@westdenhaag.nl.