Artist as Activist (Nope, Not That Kind)

I’ve been thinking about my responsibility as an artist during these tumultuous times. 

 There is a common misconception art is a luxury. In most modern societies, it is treated as though it is superfluous, soft or silly. In our culture in particular art is often treated as a hobby that isn’t as worthy as the pursuits of doctors, lawyers and CEOs. Art in most forms is consistently treated as less important than other pursuits because its sole purpose is not to make money. Many artists, particularly women, are treated as though their art is just a hobby and not a genuine life pursuit.

 All of these beliefs are complete myths and misconceptions. As a species, we are so much more than just machines that churn out money. If productivity were our sole purpose for being than we’d hardly be able to distinguish humanity from beavers and squirrels. We possess an extraordinary ability to convey stories and concepts from one individual to another and one generation to another. This is purpose of all art, music and writing. We still stand in awe in front of the statue of David, now over 500 years old. Take a moment to contemplate that: A man carved a slab of marble 518 years ago and it still has the power to arrest our attention and speak to us.  

Artists are the keepers human ideas, human emotions, human culture and the entire lexicon of what can’t be spoken solely in words. The work of artists and writers outlasts political regimes, nations and even entire civilizations. Without Mozart, DaVinci, or Hiroshige we might forget who we actually are when we aren’t making money. 

As an artist, I don’t necessarily believe it’s a time for me to create political cartoons, or protest posters. As a writer, I don’t believe I need to start grinding out Op-eds. I think in this time, or any time, it is essential for me to create what it true. It is essential for me to face the blank canvas, the blank sheet or the blank stage and speak for humanity, possibly not just for this age but for ages to come.