Censorship & Artist Rights with Andrea Perez | Cedars Union Lecture Series

Join Cedars Union Board Vice Chair and arts attorney Andrea Perez for an informative lecture on legal protections and censorship in the art world. This talk dives deep into how artists can safeguard their creative freedom, discussing essential topics such as First Amendment rights, government vs. private censorship, contracts, defamation, and the limits of free speech.

Andrea shares real-world examples from her legal practice, insights on current legislation affecting artists, and practical steps for dealing with censorship in both public and private contexts. Whether you’re an emerging artist or an established creative, this talk is filled with guidance on how to protect your work and continue creating with confidence.

Topics covered include:

What the First Amendment protects - and what it doesn’t

Government vs. private censorship

Contracts and gallery relationships

Obscenity laws and how they affect art

Navigating social media takedowns and shadow banning

Artist resources like TALA (Texas Accountants and Lawyers for the Arts)

Stay empowered. Know your rights. Keep making bold work.

Videos Referenced in the Lecture:
   • What Is Art? Follow-Up: What Is Porn?  
   • Social media doesn't want you to see Ruben...  

About Andrea Perez
Andrea Perez is an internationally respected art law attorney. Based in Texas, she serves collectors, artists, museums, auction houses, and galleries across global art hubs including New York, London, Paris, Milan, and Hong Kong. She is a dedicated advocate for artists’ rights and a frequent lecturer on international art law at Southern Methodist University. She also sits on the board of TALA and formerly served as board chair.

About The Cedars Union
The Cedars Union is a nonprofit arts incubator in Dallas, Texas, that supports emerging artists through affordable studios, tools, training, and a collaborative community. From workshops and panel discussions to public exhibitions and festivals, CU exists to nurture North Texas creatives as they build sustainable practices and careers.

Learn more: https://www.cedarsunion.org