Work

The other and us: Artworks as mediators for recognising victimised people

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Based on the notion of mediated recognition as a strategy to extend the applicability of traditional recognition theory to a wider range of human interactions, I propose artworks as suitable mediators in recognitive relations concerning victims of human rights violations. To support my idea, I analyse three pieces embracing the creative potential of victimhood experiences in Colombia which facilitate visitors to engage with the other represented there, the victimised. The enticing aesthetic encounter may generate cognitive and emotional questioning, giving visitors elements for identifying victims as persons and, more importantly, for acknowledging their victimising experience, which I argue, has normative relevance in as much as it shows how a person should not be treated.

Source: International Review of Victimology

DOI: 10.1177/02697580251359308

Author: Tatiana Fernández-Maya

Institution: KU Leuven

Language: English

Topic: Memory, violence, and history

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650