Artists for Social Change

       In light of recent negative events in the news, particularly over the last 6 months all over the world, I started thinking again about the power of an artist to create social change. We all have different skills sets no matter what you are in to. Creatives are especially in tune with how to express the emotions that are processed during times of change. They also have the power to be a catalyst for inspiration.  Add the internet and social media to the mix and you now become a walking journalist that even news reporters call on for inspirational stories (i.e. ALS Challenge).
 
       A recent example I found in social media was in Mary Engelbreit, a visual artist, who created a piece in response to the incident in Ferguson, Missouri.  In an effort to raise money for the Michael Brown Fund she examined her skill set and probably asked herself, "What can I do?"  That is actually a hard question to ask yourself.  It challenges your sense of power and resolve; it puts you in a position of accountability.  Criticism may be waiting for you as you decide to create change. There is external work, even harder internal work, that must be done to get things done.  It isn't an easy road, but oftentimes it is a necessary one.
 
       Mary is not the first person to use their talents to make an impact.  Still, she was a good reminder to me that even in what I do as an artist there is power of influence.  But you first have to decide what you stand for, what is important to you and what is worth you representing.  Basic questions like:
 
What am I good at?
What do I love to do?
What do I really care about in this world and why?
What can I do to help?  

These are just a few questions to consider.  And once you decide....make a plan and get into action. 

 

Until we meet again, live long, be happy and make something or be forgotten.

 

TeMika

#powerfulwe

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