Driving change by depicting social issues through art

Artists has been bringing preferable amount of changes from the beginning by depicting powerful social issues through their artworks. Art has the power to revolutionize the world even on a small scale. It gives voice to the voiceless. Powerful art themed around social issues and pressing matters are essential tools for bringing about reform in the social and political spheres. Socially engaged art can ignite outrage and stimulate social change if steered in the right direction. It has the power to change narratives by initiating important conversations and discussions.  

      //Ethnicities// Credit: Mario Tama/Getty

Art and society: Art is an extension of our creative expression, thoughts, and experiences. In its various forms, art captures the collective memory of a society and reflects its ever-changing values and culture. As society develops and grows, art changes to reflect its new developments. Cultural progress and social change give momentum to the growth of art. Art is also particularly important as a symbol of culture around the world. 

//Invisible homeless// Credit: Mark Simmons

Changes in the past through art: History and art go hand in hand. For centuries, art has been used to create change and spread political and social messages. Art movements have often played important roles in social changes and political leanings. Many of the art movements post World War 1 were used as a form of protest against the massive loss of human lives. Likewise, the feminist art movement played an important role in fighting for women’s rights. 

//Stop telling women to smile// Credit: Tatyana fazlaizadeh. 

By providing a new medium to present inspiring and thought-provoking quotes that are represented by striking artwork, Art contributes to bringing about subtle radical changes, developing new perspectives, and helping shift the way people think about the world through art. It is a powerful tool to connect, treasure, and push forward ideas and expressions.

~Udita Dey