Banned On The Hill Franke James: A Story of Censorship and Advocacy

Have you ever heard of Banned On The Hill Franke James? If not, prepare to be intrigued and learn about the artist whose works were subject to political censorship. Franke James, a Canadian artist, activist, and author, became the center of a controversy after her artwork was pulled from an exhibit sponsored by the Canadian government due to her political opinions. In this article, we will delve into the story of Franke James, discussing the events surrounding the ban and exploring the significance of her advocacy for free speech and artistic expression.

The Rise of Franke James

Franke James, a native of Toronto, rose to prominence as an artist and environmental activist. Her unique artistic style combines vibrant colors, visual storytelling, and thought-provoking messages about climate change, social justice, and sustainable living. By blending her talent for illustration and writing, Franke creates captivating works that encourage viewers to consider the impact of their actions on the environment and society.

The Banned Artwork

In 2011, Franke James's art exhibition titled "The Art of Franke James: A Public Apology to Canada" was scheduled to be displayed at the Office of Public Works and Government Services in Ottawa. However, just days before the opening, Franke received an email stating that the exhibition was canceled due to concerns about her political views.

Banned on the Hill

by Franke James(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	35539 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	10 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The ban on her artwork led to public outrage and discussions about censorship, freedom of expression, and political interference in the art world. The decision to cancel the exhibit highlighted the tension between an artist's right to express their opinions and the restrictions imposed by governmental institutions.

The Political Controversy

Franke James's artwork often tackled sensitive political and environmental issues. Through her visually captivating pieces, she addressed topics such as climate change, the tar sands, and government accountability. Her work served as a platform for challenging the status quo and encouraging dialogue on pressing societal concerns.

Speculation arose that Franke's political activism and outspokenness might have played a role in the decision to censor her exhibition. Critics argued that her calling attention to controversial subjects had made her a target for those who preferred to suppress dissenting voices. The ban ultimately raised questions about the role of art as a medium for political expression and the extent of freedom artists truly have.

Advocacy for Free Speech and Artistic Expression

Despite the ban and the challenges faced, Franke James did not back down. Instead, she used the incident as fuel to further champion the rights of artists to express their opinions freely. She actively sought public support, calling attention to the issue of censorship in the arts and advocating for government transparency and accountability.

Franke's perseverance and advocacy efforts yielded fruitful results. Her story gained significant media attention, and her case became a symbol of the battle for freedom of expression in Canada. Artists, activists, and individuals passionate about preserving democratic values rallied behind her, further emphasizing the importance of artistic freedom within society.

Impact and Legacy

Today, Franke James's name is synonymous with courage, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of artistic expression. She continues to create thought-provoking artwork, using her platform to raise awareness about pressing environmental challenges and social injustices. Through her advocacy work and refusal to be silenced, Franke James solidified her role as a prominent figure in the fight against censorship and a symbol of artistic freedom.

As we reflect on the story of Banned On The Hill Franke James, we are reminded of the vital role that art plays in society. It serves as a catalyst for dialogue, challenges societal norms, and holds those in power accountable. Franke's case remains a stark reminder of the ongoing need to protect and uphold freedom of expression, ensuring that artists can continue to use their craft to spark change and inspire the masses.

A Call to Action

The story of Banned On The Hill Franke James should serve as a call to action for all individuals who value freedom of expression and artistic liberty. It is crucial to support and protect artists who dare to challenge the status quo and speak truth to power. By standing united against censorship, we can foster an environment that nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and social progress.

Let Franke James's story inspire you to use your voice and artistic talents to effect change. Together, we can ensure that no artist faces censorship or suppression, but instead finds freedom and encouragement to create the vibrant, thought-provoking works that shape our world.

Banned on the Hill

by Franke James(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	35539 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	10 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Banned on the Hill: A True Story about Dirty Oil and Government Censorship:
What would you do if you discovered you were blacklisted by your own government for speaking up on climate change and the tar sands? In Banned on the Hill, artist and author Franke James, tells how she first discovered she was being censored by the Canadian government -- and how she fought back. It's an inspiring story that shows how creativity, crowd-funding and investigative digging can work together to shine a bright light on a government that is more interested in message control than a citizen's democratic right to free expression. Through eight visual essays, James traces her personal journey as an active citizen discovering the power of speaking out. Interviewed in the Guardian newspaper James said that she hoped the book would serve as a how-to guide to other activists hoping to take on the Harper administration, especially with humour. "It's kind of like a judo flip, meaning that you can actually flip someone who is much bigger than you."

Through entertaining, powerful and humorous real-life storytelling, James show us how to speak the hard truths -- and get heard. She shows us why actions speak louder than words and how each of us can make a difference in our front yards, our city, our country and our world.

About the Author
Franke James is a Canadian artist, author and activist. Her visual stories, games and videos are focused on the environment, ethics and social justice.

Banned on the Hill, published in May 2013, is Franke James third book. Through eight visual essays, James traces her personal journey as an active citizen discovering the power of speaking out. Interviewed in the Guardian UK newspaper in May 2013, James said that she hoped the book would serve as a how-to guide to other activists hoping to fight back against government censorship, especially with humour. "It's kind of like a judo flip, meaning that you can actually flip someone who is much bigger than you."

ADVANCE WORD

“This book makes you think, and it gets you angry. Bravo!” CLAYTON RUBY, C.M., B.A., LL.B., LL.M., LL.D. (honoris causa)

“The Canadian government has clamped down on scientists who tell the truth about the tarsands—and it’s tried to shut up artists too. Happily, Franke James is indefatigable!” BILL MCKIBBEN, Founder, 350.org

“Franke James’ commitment to art, free expression and political commentary put her in the cross-hairs of Stephen Harper’s Conservatives. See what the government didn’t want the world to see.” ELIZABETH MAY, Leader, Green Party of Canada, MP for Saanich-Gulf Islands

“‘Banned on the Hill’ is such a feast for the eyes one could almost overlook the disturbing and sobering tale that it tells. In the battle to communicate the threat of climate change, we need all the ammunition we can muster. Franke brings it, with a deadly combination of artistic expression, verve, and wit.” MICHAEL E. MANN, Distinguished Professor, Penn State University and author of The Hockey Stick and the Climate Wars

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

In addition to Banned on the Hill, James is the author of Bothered By My Green Conscience and Dear Office-Politics: the game everyone plays. Both were published in 2009. In Bothered by My Green Conscience, she recounts her adventures in going green, which included selling her only car, an SUV, and fighting bureaucracy at City Hall for the right to build a green driveway. (She won!)

Franke’s artwork and books have won awards and been featured in print, TV, radio and online in Canada, the USA and in many parts of the world. She has delivered keynotes, speeches and workshops at educational events in Canada and the USA.