In this episode of the UK Desk Arts Express, host Jack Clarke delves into the intriguing world of digital capitalism and cultural critique with author Mike Watson. Clarke engages Watson in a lively discussion about his provocative new book, Hungry Ghosts in the Machine. Watson explores the metaphor of the Tibetan Buddhist hungry ghost to shed light on modern anxieties and compulsions shaped by digital culture.

The conversation touches on the parallels between Theodor Adorno's critique of popular culture and today’s digital media landscape, and how the "Barbenheimer" phenomenon mirrors our collective existential fears. Clarke and Watson also dissect how capitalist commodification impacts our spiritual pursuits, and the potential for technology to both trap and liberate us. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of these pressing issues.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this edition of the UK Desk for Arts Express, airing on September 4th, 2024, host Jack Clarke sits down with Dr. Matthew Alford, co-producer of the groundbreaking documentary Theatres of War (2022), to explore the controversial intersection of military recruitment and video games. As a continuation of their ongoing collaboration, Clarke and Alford investigate how the U.S. military and intelligence agencies have used video games to shape public perception and recruit young players. From early flight simulators to today’s hyper-realistic military-themed games, they discuss the ethical concerns, political impacts, and hidden agendas behind this digital strategy. With the recent release of the Black Ops 6trailer, which taps into themes of government manipulation, this conversation is as relevant as ever. Don’t miss this deep dive into the gamification of military influence.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The recent events have been a stark reminder of the dangerous path we are treading. The far-right riots, fueled by hatred and misinformation, are tearing apart the very fabric of our society.

Jack Clarke breaks down the present situation, rise of the right, and the problems with education.

Featuring thoughts from Dr. Aaron Edwards & Josh Fleming.

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In this powerful episode of Arts Express, we sit down with Zimbabwean filmmaker Malon Murape to discuss his evocative short film, The Dry Harvest. The film addresses the harsh realities of climate change in Zimbabwe, where crops are failing due to erratic weather patterns and prolonged droughts caused by climate change. Through a unique blend of black-and-white and color shots, and the haunting sounds of the Mbira, Malon creates a dreamlike yet sobering portrayal of a crisis that is all too real. As he explains, "We all wish this was a dream."

The conversation also delves into Malon's involvement with the Kick Polluters Out campaign, which takes aim at the controversial sponsorship of the Africa Cup of Nations by TotalEnergies. In a country where activists and protestors are at constant risk of arrest and imprisonment without trial, Malon's courage in speaking out is nothing short of inspiring.

As it's difficult for him to gain a platform or funding, if you are interested in supporting Malon's work or discussing his projects further, please reach out to him at malantemedia@gmail.com. Join us in spreading awareness and positivity during these challenging times.

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In this episode, I deconstructed police brutality in both the UK and the US, exploring the systemic issues that have led to widespread abuse of power. We examined the mass resistance rising against these injustices, highlighting the courage and resilience of those fighting for change on the front lines.

Adding a unique perspective, my good friend and film critic Nico Niroo from Bremen called in to share his insights on the situation with the police in Germany. His observations added a critical international dimension to our discussion, emphasizing that the struggle against police brutality is a global issue.

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