Riposte's line-up for exhibition with Amnesty International is ridiculously good

Every issue of Riposte magazine presents the most honest, uplifting and smart women but in a style that is in no way intimidating – it’s inviting. Through both the commissioning of its writing and creative output, Riposte is a comforting nook in the scene of independent publishing that encourages readers to be the best version of themselves, flaws and all. Outside of its printed pages, the magazine is expanding its ethos in both events and partnerships and the most exciting to date is with Amnesty International. Titled Protection, the new exhibition and event programme featuring women and non-binary artists celebrates the 70th anniversary of the declaration of human rights.

Running from 10–16 December at Coal Drops Yard, London, Protection showcases a ridiculously strong line up of 30 artists showcasing 30 prints. Including Nathalie du Pasquier (yes, Nathalie du Pasquier!), Hattie Stewart, Joy Miessi, Juno Calypso, Alva Skog Mona Chalabi, Maisie Cousins, Kelly Anna and even the Guerrilla Girls, each artist was invited to create a piece of work in response to the theme of “Protection”.

Riposte is part of the Amnesty Collective, “a diverse group of acclaimed artists, influencers and activists” engaging with its campaigns through community and, for this occasion, the publication wanted to showcase a wide range of global artists across the industry. “We made sure that the artists involved were a global mix to reflect the myriad ways that we’re all affected by the issues around human rights,” says Danielle Pender, Riposte’s founder and editor. “We invited established artists and designers such as Guerrilla Girls, Nathalie du Pasquier and Esther Mahlangu alongside younger artists to explore the generational reaction to the issues covered in the declaration.”

In 1948 the declaration of human rights was originally drafted after the second world war and “provides a universal set of minimum standards for how people should be treated worldwide”, rooted in its “desire for dignity, equality and fairness for all.” Riposte’s selection of artists interpret this through focusing on the idea of protection, “protecting our human rights and those of others,” says Danielle. “There’s a real collective feel to the show and to the ideas explored in the work. A feeling that change can come when people collectively come together to protect each other and what is important.”

Chiara Capraro, Amnesty International UK’s programme manager of women’s human rights, aligns too with the importance and impact of collective action, noting how in the 70 years since the declaration “the journey to a fairer world has been packed with everything from small victories to historic triumphs – and they’re all down to ordinary people,” she explains. “Globally there has been a surge in movements for our rights from #MeToo and #TimesUp to the fight for abortion rights, activists continue to score important human rights victories. But the fight is not over. Right now, people in power around the world are abusing our human rights and intimidating and silencing those who defend them. Together, we can change this – because when more people speak up our voices become louder and more powerful.”

The exhibition will open on 10 December, Human Rights Day, and the rare opportunity to pick up a print by the exhibiting artists is available via Riposte online or at the show. Protection is also accompanied by a programme of events (you can book tickets here) and a publication edited and designed by Riposte, printed by Newspaper Club.