artKinship is an independent international organization of cultural workers and artists advocating for freedom of artistic expression and cultural diversity. We have come together in response to the growing pressure on artists to self-censor and the increasing hesitation of institutions to defend them.

The initiative began after the Slovenian artist Maja Smrekar experienced the misuse of her artwork on kinship and care during a referendum campaign by the right-wing Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) on pension reform. Her work was appropriated and turned into political propaganda.

While Smrekar continues to stand for artistic freedom—both for herself and for the broader artistic community—artKinship is laying the foundation for a wider platform to support artists facing political persecution around the world.

Because we believe art must remain a space for reflection, dissent, and truth.

Stand with us. Defend artistic freedom.