I Dream of Congo

Congo Connect present ‘I Dream of Congo: Narratives from The Great Lakes’ Congo Connect presents an exhibition combining words and images from renowned international creatives alongside a groundbreaking exhibition of photos taken by women in eastern Congo. Featuring works by Marcus Bleasdale Lynsey Addario William Boyd Tim Butcher Adam Hochschild and Ron Haviv the exhibition and accompanying events will celebrate the hope and optimism that pervades in the region despite years of war. It will also pose hard questions around the international community’s inaction in the face of the conflict the continuing illicit trade in minerals from Congo and the failure to stem the tide of sexual violence. The contributors including the women of eastern DRC have all responded to the phrase ‘I Dream of Congo’. The exhibition curated by Leslie Thomas of Art Works Projects and produced by Congo Connect will run from 12th-23rd February 2013 at Conway Hall before moving on to further venues in the UK and US throughout 2013. Any proceeds will go to funding projects on the ground in Congo. Programme of events: 12th February – Preview evening. 13th February – The Frontline Club @ Conway Hall. A ticketed panel debate evening event in association with the Royal African Society focusing on the peace process and security situation in eastern DRC. For more details click here . 14th February – Women for Women International in association with One Billion Rising – An evening of discussions and presentations based around ‘I Dream of Congo’. Email supportuk@womenforwomen.org for more information and to register. 16th February – Public open day from 9.30am to 5pm. The exhibition will be open to the public all day and entry is free. 23rd February – Final night party featuring Congolese musicians in association with Save the Congo. Ticketed event. Buy tickets here