Why Support for Artists Is Key to a Just Society
From The Observatory
Support for artists is essential for creating a just and sustainable society. Throughout history, artists have been at the forefront of societal change, shaping culture and inspiring innovation. However, our current system undervalues art both financially and culturally, perpetuating the “starving artist” stereotype and neglecting diverse artists’ contributions. The 2021 Grantmakers in the Arts report, “Solidarity Not Charity,” highlights the importance of supporting diverse artists in building a more just economy. These artists offer creative solutions to societal challenges and play a vital role in political resistance, mutual aid efforts, and building the solidarity economy.
The report advocates expanding a solidarity economy, empowering artists and communities through mutual aid networks, cooperatives, and participatory budgeting processes. By supporting community ownership and democratic governance, society can shift its perspective on artists' compensation and value their crucial contributions.
The power of art in galvanizing communities is evident in the documentary film “Alice Street,” which tells the story of the “Universal Language” mural in Oakland, California. The mural, celebrating diversity and culture, was blocked from view by a luxury condominium, symbolizing the impacts of gentrification. Organizations like the Community Rejuvenation Project advocate for equitable development policies and use public art to preserve and enrich existing communities.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and urban exodus, Black-led cultural organizations formed the BlacSpace Cooperative in Oakland to uplift Black arts, business, ownership, and culture. Inspired by the Black Arts Movement, BlacSpace aims to support Black artist communities and create permanent strategies for their thriving, fostering cooperative business models and shared spaces for BIPOC artists.
Artists have also used their creativity for political activism, as seen in Laredo, Texas, where activists painted a giant mural to protest the proposed border wall. Throughout the Trump presidency and the pandemic, groups like Indecline used activist art to spark dialogue and address pressing issues like school shootings and political corruption.
Artists have been instrumental in helping communities heal from devastating events, such as the Oregon fires. Laura Loescher created Earth Altar art pieces, using nature’s materials to cope with grief caused by the pandemic, racial justice upheavals, and climate crisis. Her art show became a fundraiser for fire relief efforts, supporting those impacted by the fires.
Moreover, artists like Sydney Calderon have used their creativity to spread awareness about community free fridges, a mutual-aid effort providing free food to those in need. Through vibrant artwork, Calderon and other BIPOC artists challenge the notion that fine art is exclusive to wealth and whiteness, promoting accessible art that profoundly impacts communities.
Overall, supporting artists is not only crucial for their well-being but also essential for building a more just and inclusive society that values creativity, diversity, and community empowerment.
🔭 This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.
