Visual AIDS is an organization centered around using art to confront and address the global AIDS crisis. They aim to stimulate discourse around the issue, support HIV positive artists, and preserve the legacy of those impacted by the disease. Their approach is rooted in the belief that the AIDS crisis is not yet over and that art can play a critical role in continuing the fight.
The organization carries out its mission through a variety of channels and activities. They host art exhibits and events, facilitating dialogue and generating awareness about the AIDS pandemic. On the Visual AIDS website, a 'Featured Web Gallery' showcases artworks that touch on themes related to AIDS, creating a space for reflection and engagement online.
Moreover, Visual AIDS undertakes a variety of projects to support HIV+ artists. These include inviting artists to contribute to their 'Artist Registry' and organizing open calls for artist submissions. One of their notable initiatives is 'Postcards From the Edge', where artists are invited to submit postcard-sized artwork. This project creates an opportunity for artists affected by HIV/AIDS to express their experiences and perspectives.
Their blog is another platform that bridges the gap between art and AIDS advocacy. In September 2023, they reported about twelve artists living with HIV who presented new artwork at the 'HIV Science as Art' exhibition at the IAS Conference on HIV Science in Brisbane, Australia. They also shared an oral history recording featuring artists Jos Luis Corts and Eric Rhein, emphasizing the active role Visual AIDS plays in preserving stories and memories of those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Visual AIDS also maintains a store, providing another avenue to support the organization, its artists, and its mission. It allows patrons to purchase artworks and other items, contributing financially to the fight against AIDS.
Overall, Visual AIDS merges the worlds of art and AIDS advocacy, providing support for HIV+ artists and using the power of art to provoke dialogue. They offer numerous platforms for engagement and opportunities for artists to express their voices and experiences. While challenging the matters of HIV/AIDS, the organization also manages to preserve the legacy of those affected by the disease.
