“Art is activist in nature as it highlights the unspoken issues and gives a glimpse of the truth to the world.”
Art and social activism have always intermingled to capture the essence of human condition and social issues. Art acts as a reflection of a society’s struggles, hopes, political, cultural, and environmental issues to mention a few. Hence, art, is activist in nature as it highlights the unspoken issues and gives a glimpse of the truth to the world.
If we trace the idea of art as activism through history, it takes us as far back as 1700s when French artist, Jacques-Louis David painted his support for the French Revolution. His infamous painting The Death of Marat captures the assassination of Jean-Paul Marat (French Revolution activist) by Charlotte Corday (member of opposing political party). David’s realistic depiction of the issues pertaining to the French Revolution further advocated for human rights and freedom.
20th century Afro-American artist Jacob Lawrence expounded upon the history and afflictions of his fellow Afro-Americans. His inspirational Migration Series follows the stories of Afro-Americans’ migration from rural South to urban North. Along with this, his other paintings, like Tombstones, Pool Parlor, and The Builders further delve into the living style of Afro-Americans in the Harlem area.
American-Mexican sculptor Elizabeth Catlett, just like other artists, advocated for human rights while also focusing on producing activist art to invoke change in gender, race, class, and social hierarchies. Catlett’s famous wooden sculpture Black Unity became a powerful symbol of Black Movement in America. Activist art can’t be discussed without mentioning Farida Kahlo. Her painting The Two Faridas showcases the artist’s two different personalities. While one is wearing Tehuana costume, the other is wearing a modern dress. Herein, Kahlo highlights the artist’s struggle with dual identity and emotional distress which is experienced by millions of others as a result of migration and separation from the homeland.
All of these artists, to whatever capacity they can, portray the human suffering and struggle. They depict what can’t be spoken out loud and advocate for those who can’t defend themselves on international forum. As their work transcends the boundaries drawn by the imperialistic world, it coalesces what is human through empathy and righteousness. Thenceforth, art, in it’s very meaning, has always been political and truthful. It is about human beings and for human beings. It never alienates itself from the reality and always comes forward when the human race needs it the most.
