Amrit Kartar, India
Artist, Writer
Writer, IPEP India 2024

From the dawn of human civilization, societies have grappled with notions of justice and fairness. Early systems of governance introduced rudimentary forms of law and order to protect individuals within tribes and communities, laying the groundwork for what we now understand as justice. These early legal codes, like Hammurabi’s Code in ancient Mesopotamia, were among the first attempts to formalize societal norms. They signified a step toward using law as a framework to preserve social order. Yet, as history unfolded, it became evident that the law could serve both as a shield for humanity and as a tool of oppression, a “double-edged sword” as noted by Philippe Sands in East West Street, capable of protecting and destroying depending on the intentions of those who wield it.
The legacy of Hersch Zvi Lauterpacht, a prominent figure in international law, underscores this duality. Lauterpacht’s advocacy for universal human rights and accountability during the Nuremberg Trials became a pivotal moment in the evolution of justice. His commitment to holding powerful figures accountable for atrocities committed during World War II reflected a deep belief in the law’s potential to serve humanity rather than tyranny. Lauterpacht’s influence, particularly his efforts to enshrine protections for individuals against crimes of genocide and crimes against humanity, became essential building blocks in the creation of modern human rights frameworks. This reflects the idea that “the law is a double-edged sword, capable of both protecting and destroying, depending on how it is used.”
As East West Street eloquently demonstrates, the concept of law as both the “guardian of civilization and the instrument of its ultimate destruction” resonates deeply. This dichotomy points to the fragility of legal systems that can be used either to promote justice or to entrench injustice. As history reveals, laws have been exploited to perpetuate oppression, marginalizing groups based on race, religion, and social status. In contrast, when wielded by individuals with integrity and a commitment to justice—like Lauterpacht—law becomes a powerful tool for advancing human rights and upholding dignity.

While legal frameworks are critical to establishing justice, the power of art to imprint justice on society is equally significant. Here, the International Print Exchange Program (IPEP) plays a vital role in expanding the reach of social justice through the medium of printmaking. In reflecting on IPEP’s mission, the lyrics of the song Wake Up Everybody by Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes echo as relevant today as in 1975: “The world won’t get no better if we just let it be, The world won’t get no better, We gotta change it, Just you and me.” Now more than ever, we are reminded of the importance of working against racism, police brutality, poverty, food insecurity, health disparities, marginalisation , and other injustices. The pursuit of justice is as relentless as it is vital, and as injustices never rest, neither can we.

IPEP’s dedication to advancing justice through art mirrors Lauterpacht’s legacy in international law. Printmaking, with its unique reproducibility, allows artists to amplify voices and broadcast messages that advocate for social, political, and environmental justice. IPEP artists have embraced this capacity, addressing critical issues such as racial inequality, gender rights, environmental degradation, and human displacement. Through their intricate and evocative prints, they use art to address the global issues that impact our shared humanity. Their work not only challenges complacency but also fosters dialogue, emphasizing that art can serve as a potent catalyst for social change.

Understanding history, as Sands suggests, is vital to shaping a more just future. Without learning from the past, we risk repeating mistakes and failing to evolve. The painful experiences of war and systemic injustices illuminate the consequences of misused power, urging us to recognize justice as an ongoing, dynamic process. A quote from East West Street captures this sentiment well: “Justice is not a static concept, but a dynamic process that requires constant vigilance and effort.” This ideal aligns closely with IPEP’s approach, as each print they create transcends mere artistic expression, serving instead as a visual narrative that compels us to confront uncomfortable realities and challenge the status quo. Through their art, IPEP artists embody the belief that justice is a continuous journey, requiring dedication and advocacy to uphold principles of equality and accountability.

IPEP’s artists, by transforming both individual and shared experiences of injustice into potent visual statements, spark essential conversations that transcend borders and cultures. In doing so, they echo Martin Luther King Jr.’s observation that “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.” Each print brings to life the complex interconnections of our collective struggles, urging viewers to reflect on their roles in the global quest for equity and accountability. Their work not only portrays injustice but demands accountability, emphasizing that art—like law—has the potential to serve as both shield and challenge.

The ongoing legacy of IPEP’s printmaking over the past decade is a testament to artistic excellence and profound social engagement. These artists have left an imprint on society that endures beyond paper and ink, ensuring that their messages resonate within the broader human landscape. Through their commitment, IPEP artists honor a legacy of resilience, advocating for a world where justice is accessible to all. They remind us that art, like law, when guided by integrity and compassion, can indeed be a force for good—a legacy that compels us to uphold the inherent dignity of all people.

In closing, both the legal contributions of figures like Lauterpacht and the artistic endeavors of IPEP reveal that justice is not merely a concept, but a journey requiring the vigilance and effort of each generation. By integrating art and activism, IPEP artists bring justice into focus, challenging us to question the systems that surround us. Through their enduring work, they call upon us all to join them in this pursuit, leaving a lasting imprint on our collective conscience to amplify the urgency and relevance of the call for justice, making IMPRINTING JUSTICE a powerful rallying cry for action, I’ve quoted song lyrics like “Wake Up Everybody” by Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, & referencing Martin Luther King’s speech…..