Creative Work: Purpose, Protest, Passion

(and not necessarily in that particular order)

Recently, an ACT UP activist reminded me of the purpose of our creative work and our responsibility to create a certain kind of work. Speaking of the activist art made at the height of the AIDS pandemic, he noted, “We didn’t want to do work that’s in a museum; we wanted to do work that’s on the streets…guess where our work is now?”

That kind of artwork can undoubtedly be found in museums and streets. Just think of all the buttons and banners and t-shirts people wear nowadays when demonstrating (for their rights, for example) or only as a way to express themselves or their support for a specific cause (fight AIDS, equal rights, animal rights, women rights, the environment, etc.).

So the question that comes to mind is:

Why do we create?

Many people often associate a piece of artwork with beauty (in the eyes of the beholder), but should art have a deeper purpose? And, if yes, what should that purpose be?

Whenever necessary, should creatives use art to send a message or make a point?

Should we use our creative work to speak our minds–to advocate for a cause or protest an injustice? Is it still safe to do so?

I’ve noticed lately that some people refer to “activist art” as “protest art.” I guess that’s because this kind of art advocates for a cause and often protests an injustice. It usually comes from the most vital type of passion, has a well-defined purpose, and might be the most potent art ever made.

Over the years, I’ve been honored to cover the stories of extraordinary activists and advocates who, empowered by injustices done to their peers, create unique, awe-inspiring activist art. There’s a lot we can learn from them. I believe that, by following in their footsteps, we, as creatives, can also take on such causes and make activist art of our own, to let our voices be heard and take on the challenges of our time; if so, we desire to feel that we should. We could capture what’s expected of us, perhaps what’s considered “the norm” (and), or use art for a bigger purpose. Sometimes, it might not even have to be an either/or decision.

As always, thanks for stopping by,

Alina Oswald