Do art and politics / social activism go together?
Last weekend, I attended a presentation by local artists about landscapes. Each presentation had a strong connection between social activism and artistic practice. The common theme was global warming.
Artistic expression taps into the creativity that many people possess, but don’t think of applying to the “serious business” of politics. “I’m not political,” is a phrase one hears often; however, it's rare for a person not to identify with any social agenda.
I can't deny that art can act as an access point that can be used to approach and engage people who normally would not be involved in typical civic activity and community organization. Following the recent terrorist attack on Paris, will more artist use their talent to increase the social consciousness of the source and impact of such incidents, or does art provide a diversion?
My art doesn't related to social causes but I do appreciate those who do.
Think of the musician who assisted in returned a feeling of calm to Paris the morning after a gunman killed at least 80 inside the concert hall and played John Lennon's "Imagine". What a wonderful choice of song. Imagine no religion... the root cause of terrorism and war. How powerful was this artistic practice?
Let's not let fear dictate our actions.
As one of many who has had the pleasure of walking the streets of Paris, I was touched by last Friday's horrific events. Here is a recognizable Paris scene that I painted yesterday.
To the families and friends that had a loved one whose life was cut tragically short in Paris my condolences.
Have a great week
Danielle
Last weekend, I attended a presentation by local artists about landscapes. Each presentation had a strong connection between social activism and artistic practice. The common theme was global warming.
Artistic expression taps into the creativity that many people possess, but don’t think of applying to the “serious business” of politics. “I’m not political,” is a phrase one hears often; however, it's rare for a person not to identify with any social agenda.
I can't deny that art can act as an access point that can be used to approach and engage people who normally would not be involved in typical civic activity and community organization. Following the recent terrorist attack on Paris, will more artist use their talent to increase the social consciousness of the source and impact of such incidents, or does art provide a diversion?
My art doesn't related to social causes but I do appreciate those who do.
Think of the musician who assisted in returned a feeling of calm to Paris the morning after a gunman killed at least 80 inside the concert hall and played John Lennon's "Imagine". What a wonderful choice of song. Imagine no religion... the root cause of terrorism and war. How powerful was this artistic practice?
Let's not let fear dictate our actions.
As one of many who has had the pleasure of walking the streets of Paris, I was touched by last Friday's horrific events. Here is a recognizable Paris scene that I painted yesterday.
Have a great week
Danielle
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