Artists’ and entertainers’ methods of changing culture in Saudi Arabia were the topic of discussion on a recent edition of the “MTSU On the Record” radio program. 

Dr. Sean Foley

Part one of host Gina Logue’s interview with Dr. Sean Foley, a professor of history at MTSU, first aired May 12 on WMOT-FM Roots Radio 89.5 and www.wmot.org.

You can listen to their conversation via the Soundcloud link above. Part two of their talk is available here.

Foley’s book, “Changing Saudi Arabia: Art, Culture, and Society in the Kingdom,” chronicles how painters, sculptors, filmmakers and even stand-up comedians are expressing views that previously would have been considered taboo in Saudi society.

“Their ideas are clear,” Foley said. “They’re sophisticated. They’re often talking about issues that are political, that have enormous impact, but in a way that is nonpartisan.”

Foley said these artists and performers are expressing their views in ways that are escaping retribution from the Saudi monarchy and the theocratic government.

To hear previous “MTSU On the Record” programs, visit the searchable “Audio Clips” archives at www.mtsunews.com.

For more information about the radio program, contact Logue at 615-898-5081 or WMOT-FM at 615-898-2800.