The project kicked off in May with a public call inviting artists to participate. A total of eight artists expressed their interest, and after presenting their ideas in a joint meeting, three distinct artistic actions were chosen for development. These works were crafted by emerging artists Ozbek Ajvaz and Andrej Minevski, along with a collaborative piece by Maja Taneva, Ljubo Kamenjarov, Aleksandar Naumovski and realized by Ljubomir Atanasovski. Each installation uniquely tackled the theme of fake news, blending creativity with a powerful message.
1. Road to the Truth
The first installation, "Road to the Truth," was conceived by young sculptor Andrej Minevski. His piece featured a two-sided recycled bicycle, symbolizing the pursuit of truth. The bicycle was seen climbing a path toward truth, but it was blocked by various obstacles representing fake news. This symbolic representation highlighted how false information can hinder the pursuit of accurate knowledge and understanding. Installed in Kim Square, a central location in the city, on July 21, "Road to the Truth" quickly drew the attention of passersby. The installation prompted viewers to reflect on the barriers to truth in today's information landscape, sparking conversations and awareness about the pervasive issue of fake news.
2. Robot Doll
The second installation, "Robot Doll," was the invention of artist Ozbek Ajvaz. This interactive piece featured a life-sized mannequin dressed as a TV presenter, but with a twist: instead of a head, the doll had a megaphone. This striking image was designed to symbolize the spread of propaganda and fake news through media channels. The installation was interactive; equipped with sensors and speakers, the doll could "speak" to passersby, delivering key messages about recognizing fake news and offering advice on how people can protect themselves from disinformation. The Robot Doll quickly became a sensation on social media, capturing the interest of younger audiences due to its interactive nature. Simultaneously, it resonated with older generations, who were drawn to the practical advice offered to protect against online fraud and misleading information, particularly targeting the senior population. The installation's ability to engage with a wide demographic highlighted the effectiveness of using art as a tool for education and social change.
3. Licitar Cookies and Fake News - Sweet Lies and Bitter Truth
The third installation, "Licitar Cookies and Fake News - Sweet Lies and Bitter Truth," used the visually appealing motif of licitar cookies to explore the theme of deception. These traditional decorative cookies, often bright and attractive but inedible, served as a metaphor for the enticing yet false nature of fake news. The installation aimed to illustrate that while lies can be dressed up to look appealing, they remain untruths at their core. The choice of licitar cookies, with their historical use as decorative items rather than consumables, underscored the idea that appearances can be deceiving. By equating the bright, attractive cookies with the allure of fake news, the installation encouraged viewers to question the reliability of the information they encounter. Set up in Kim Square on August 8, this installation attracted significant public interest. People were initially drawn by the vibrant colors and sculptural forms of the cookies but were soon engaged by the deeper message, which highlighted the harmful impact of disinformation.
A New Form of Communication
The success of these artistic interventions demonstrated the potential of using creative approaches to initiate dialogue and raise awareness about important social issues. Through these installations, the project was able to engage with a large number of people, reaching audiences that might not typically be informed about fake news. By placing thought-provoking art in public spaces, the project prompted viewers to consider their own media consumption habits and the reliability of the information they encounter.
The project's main objective was to contribute to the reduction of fake news and disinformation in North Macedonia through creative communication and artistic activism. By incorporating elements of surprise, direct engagement and emotionally resonant public art, the project aimed to stimulate critical thinking among the public. The installations encouraged people to question the veracity of the information they see online and, in the media, promoting a more skeptical and discerning approach to consuming news.
Through the three actions implemented, the project successfully mobilized a large number of citizens—estimated between 20,000 to 30,000—highlighting the issue of fake news. Moreover, the project inspired artists to consider addressing themes of disinformation in their future works, which could significantly increase the visibility of this issue.
Innovative Artistic Approaches
One of the most significant outcomes of the project was the creation of a new artistic approach to combating fake news. By using art in public spaces, the project was able to reach common people and audiences, urging them not to believe everything they see and read on social networks and online media. The installations encouraged viewers to take a moment to think critically and check multiple sources before forming opinions based on potentially misleading information. This approach is particularly valuable in a time when the rapid spread of disinformation can easily shape public opinion and influence societal attitudes.
In North Macedonia, many people are either unaware of or indifferent to the issue of fake news, often believing it does not impact their daily lives. Through the artistic actions implemented, the project was able to directly address these misconceptions, prompting audiences to rethink their attitudes toward the information they consume online. The installations encouraged people to question whether all the information they encounter is truthful or if some of it might be deliberately misleading to create false narratives and manipulate public opinion.
Engaging Artists and Communities
At the start of the project, over 15 artists and artistic activists were invited to participate. Almost all accepted the invitation and contributed in various ways to the development of the artistic actions. Ultimately, three artistic action: Two-Sided Bike, Robot Doll, and Licitar Cookies - Sweet Lies and Bitter Truth—were developed, involving eight artists and creative activists in different capacities, from conceptual development to practical and technical implementation. Additionally, three journalists were included in the project, highlighting the interdisciplinary collaboration that underpinned the initiative.
The project also had a significant impact on its indirect beneficiaries, the audience. Over 1,000 people had the opportunity to engage with the art installations up close, with some interacting directly with the artists or listening to the messages delivered by the Robot Doll. Media coverage further extended the project's reach, with an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 people being exposed to the installations and their messages. The public's engagement with the installations provided valuable insights and feedback, which gave the artists new ideas and potential approaches for continuing their efforts to combat fake news and disinformation in the future.
The initiative to use art as a tool to combat fake news in North Macedonia has demonstrated the power of creativity and public engagement in addressing pressing social issues. By incorporating artistic activism into the public sphere, the project succeeded in raising awareness, prompting critical thinking and encouraging dialogue about the dangers of disinformation. The installations not only captured the attention of diverse audiences but also inspired other artists to consider the role they can play in this fight. This project can serve as a reminder that art can be a powerful medium for social change. By tapping into the emotional and intellectual engagement of the public, artistic interventions can break through apathy and indifference, making people more aware of the realities around them. As the fight against fake news continues, innovative approaches like this one will be crucial in shaping a more informed, critical, and discerning society.
Photo credit: Contemporary Art Center