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Showing posts from February, 2025

Gladiators Then and Now: Resistance or Terrorism?

Ridley Scott’s latest film Gladiator II has reignited interest in the legendary gladiators of ancient Rome, portraying them as symbols of defiance against tyranny. Audiences cheer for their strength and resilience, seeing them as heroes who fought for justice and freedom. Yet, in today’s world, those who engage in similar resistance are often labeled as terrorists rather than freedom fighters. This contrast raises important questions about how history is framed and who gets to define the morality of rebellion. The Roman gladiators were enslaved men forced into brutal combat for the entertainment of the ruling elite. Yet, when they revolted—most famously under Spartacus—they challenged an oppressive system, seeking liberation from subjugation. Their struggle is now romanticized as a fight for freedom, a cause worthy of admiration. But how different is their story from that of modern groups who resist oppression with force? In contemporary conflicts, resistance movements often emerge ...

Gladiators Then and Now: Resistance or Terrorism?

Ridley Scott’s latest film Gladiator II has reignited interest in the legendary gladiators of ancient Rome, portraying them as symbols of defiance against tyranny. Audiences cheer for their strength and resilience, seeing them as heroes who fought for justice and freedom. Yet, in today’s world, those who engage in similar resistance are often labeled as terrorists rather than freedom fighters. This contrast raises important questions about how history is framed and who gets to define the morality of rebellion. The Roman gladiators were enslaved men forced into brutal combat for the entertainment of the ruling elite. Yet, when they revolted—most famously under Spartacus—they challenged an oppressive system, seeking liberation from subjugation. Their struggle is now romanticized as a fight for freedom, a cause worthy of admiration. But how different is their story from that of modern groups who resist oppression with force? In contemporary conflicts, resistance movements often emerge ...

An Exhibition of International Street Artists Comes to Torrance Art Museum

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Los Angeles, California – February 2025 – The Torrance Art Museum (TAM) proudly presents Burner: An Exhibition of International Street Artists , running from January 18th through March 1st, 2025. This groundbreaking exhibition, now in its fifth year of international display, brings a curated collection of original works from the Street Art/Urban Graffiti genre, showcasing pieces that have never before been exhibited in the United States. Banksy – Waiting In Vain Among the exhibition’s highlights is Waiting In Vain , a seminal work by the elusive Banksy. Originally created in 2013 during Banksy’s famed “Better Out Than In” residency in New York City, the piece remains a striking example of the artist’s socially charged commentary. Displayed in its original form, this exhibition offers a rare opportunity for the public to experience this iconic artwork up close. In addition to Banksy, Burner features works by some of the most celebrated names in the street art movement, including...