Arts & Human Rights with Smashing Times

In this episode, we will be discussing the powerful memoir ‘When Breath Becomes Air’ by Paul Kalanithi, reflecting on the interconnecting emotions of joy and grief as well as the ‘silent’ grief experienced by parents when their children decide to emigrate. Additionally, we will provide a special acknowledgment to Transition Year Students at Firsthouse Community College for the wonderful presentation of their annual show.

Joining us is Féilim James, a poet, playwright, and prose writer from Dublin, Ireland, whose work has appeared in New Irish Writing, Acumen, and Abridged, among others. He serves as the editor of Tintreach: The Smashing Times Arts and Literary Journal, and will be sharing details on our upcoming edition as well as an open call for submissions set to begin in May.

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Mary reflects on the war in the Middle East, on Iranian artists speaking out for freedom, and on the urgent need to end war, authoritarianism and genocide. The programme also highlights upcoming Smashing Times exhibitions, performances and events, and celebrates International Women’s Day with features on new art and a powerful Magdalene Laundry installation.

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Chat and live music with Carol Scott, Peter Gallagher and Sebastien Luthers of CAS, a four-piece Celtic ensemble launching their new album "Tonnta na Maidine" on 9th April at The Cobblestone Pub, Dublin; and with Carli Jefferson and Clair Le Couteur from Lunatraktors, debuting their new show "TimeWeavers" at the Scene + Heard, at Smock Alley Theatre, Dublin, 28th February, 2pm.

Did you know the arts are good for your health? Today’s episode presented by Mary Moynihan highlights the role of the arts in maintaining physical and mental well-being and looks at prominent figures using their platforms to advocate for peace and freedom of expression:

• Pep Guardiola, Manager of Manchester City F.C., has spoken publicly against war, highlighting the responsibility public figures have to promote peace.

• Historian and Author Rutger Bregman addresses issues of censorship and open debate in connection with the BBC. His lecture "A Time of Monsters" forms part of the renowned BBC Reith Lectures - an annual lecture series organised and broadcast by the BBC, long associated with big ideas and robust public discourse.

• Ukrainian skeleton racer Vladyslav Heraskevych made headlines during the Winter Olympics after being disqualified for refusing to remove his “helmet of memory,” honouring Ukrainian athletes killed in the conflict with Russia - a powerful example of sport intersecting with remembrance and protest.
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Mary explores the power of protest songs and the vital connection between music and activism. From Woody Guthrie and Aretha Franklin to Bruce Springsteen, Billy Bragg and the global legacy of Which Side Are You On, the programme traces how artists across generations and cultures use song to challenge injustice. Featuring music linked to recent protests in Iran and beyond, the episode reflects on cultural resistance, solidarity and the ongoing global struggle for democracy, human rights and dignity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In an era of rising inequality, authoritarianism, and threats to democracy, this episode explores the growing call for artists to speak out. We delve into the enduring power of protest songs as tools of resistance, solidarity, and hope—addressing themes from environmental justice and women’s rights to labour struggles, anti-racism, and opposition to fascism. Music that challenges injustice can inspire courage, spark dialogue, and remind us whose side we’re on.

We’re also joined by visual artist and interior designer Avril Murphy Allen, whose vibrant solo exhibition Alleyways runs at Smashing Times Visual Art Gallery, Dublin, from 5–8 February 2026. Through an explosion of colour, Avril explores overlooked urban spaces and the resilience, memory, and transformation they hold. Avril also features in the Solstice Light Art in Winter exhibition, running at the same gallery until 25 January 2026.
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