Post 3-What is Art Activism?

 Readings/Quote Responses:

The Art of Activism

1."When used by activists, the phrase "stepping off the curb" refers to the moment that one leaves the sidewalk and enters the street to join a protest, but in a broader sense it means making the step from passive indifference into active engagment."

This quote sticks out to me because of its truth and relatability. For example, I made a few memes and shared anti-ICE art on my Insta page after being genuinely fed up with all the news headlines I read.

2."We are often motivated more by emotional attachments to issues, perspectives, and politicians than by reasoned political positions."

This statement is true, as being the child of immigrant parents has shaped my views and feelings on certain events occuring in the present day.

An Introduction to Activist Art

1."As a reaction to the violence of the war and political circumstances, Dada artists rejected traditional representations and like French artist Jean Arp put it, tried to discover an unreasoned order."

Rejecting certain traditional/societal norms can lead to positive change for everyone, and Dada artists were some of the first to attempt this.

2."The interests, hardships, and experiences of marginalized groups are often underrepresented or not discussed at all. Activist art can make these specific experiences visible and include them in historical, social, and political discourse."

The wording of this statement prefectly explains the importance and true purpose of activist art.

8 Artists Using Their Creativity To Drive Activism

1. "Art is one of the most powerful tools we have for communicating those stories, sharing lived experiences, and fighting for global change in the mission to end extreme poverty and the systemic causes that drive it."

I feel as though many people downplay the power art can have when it comes to systemic change, and this statement counters such a thought process.

2. "From her serene melodies to her captivating visual creations, she reminds us that the world is a canvas waiting to be painted with unity."

Calling the world "a canvas waiting to be painted with unity" is a powerful analogy I've never heard of before, but will definitely use in the future!

What is Art Activism?

Three forms of activism we've discussed include first and foremost illustration/art, live performances and concerts(Bad Bunny's halftime show), and protests across city streets/neighborhoods. When it comes to New Jersey's community in particular, many protests have been held and artists(myself included) have made various posts speaking against the injustices we see or even experience. Down below, I've selected the piece The Uprising by Diego Rivera. Rivera, a Mexican painter, was an open critic of capitalism and held strong beliefs centered around class struggle. This particular work of his represents oppressed civilians/workers taking a stand against authority, promoting the message of a unified resistance.