OUR VISION

Amplifying the Unheard

In the vast, intricate tapestry of human experience, there are voices that rise above the noise, capturing the world's attention, and there are those that whisper in the shadows, their stories muted by systemic inequities and historical oversight. These are the sidelined voices—artists and visionaries whose expressions have been stifled, whose narratives have been ignored, and whose truths have been overlooked.

Who Are the Sidelined Voices?

Sidelined voices are not confined to a single definition; they are as multifaceted as the world we inhabit. They are the women who break through glass ceilings only to find another layer above. They are the BIPOC communities whose rich heritages and cultural contributions are often marginalized. They are the LGBTQ+ individuals whose love and identities are continually questioned. But they are also much more.

These voices emerge from war-torn nations where creativity blooms amidst chaos. They rise from disenfranchised urban communities and the remote, mountainous regions where access to art and education is limited. They include those with neurodivergent minds, whose unique ways of thinking offer fresh, innovative perspectives. They come from diverse educational backgrounds, from Ivy League graduates to self-taught prodigies who have honed their craft against all odds.

Sidelined voices encompass people of all ages, from the young prodigies bursting with raw, untamed talent to the elders whose wisdom and experience are too often dismissed. They are the refugees, the displaced, the economically disadvantaged, and those battling invisible disabilities. In essence, they are anyone whose story is not part of the dominant narrative, anyone whose voice has been drowned out by the clamor of mainstream culture.

Why We Must Amplify Them

Art is a powerful medium—it transcends boundaries, challenges perceptions, and ignites change. When we amplify sidelined voices, we are not merely providing a platform for individual expression; we are enriching the cultural landscape with the diversity and depth it needs to thrive.

These artists bring with them the stories of their communities, shedding light on injustices and offering pathways to empathy and understanding. They challenge the status quo, pushing us to question our assumptions and broaden our horizons. Their creativity and innovation inspire us to imagine new possibilities and drive societal progress.

By lifting these voices, we are fostering a more inclusive, equitable world. We are bridging gaps and building connections, creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to be seen, heard, and valued. In amplifying sidelined voices, we are not just changing the art world–we are changing the world itself.

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Jen, Ariel, Bonnie & Alita
COVEN Founders