We are constantly exposed to images that show the harsh realities of the world and the global societies. It’s everywhere: on TV, in newspapers, on social media. We are inundated daily with overwhelming emotion, despair, and desperation. We feel powerless, even though we have noble compassion and empathy. We believe that we are limited by our position in society and the world.
Henri Matisse: Creativity is Courage.
We often forget to acknowledge that these emotions are our true power. Your connection to your senses is made through your fear, anger, or consent. These images are where we learn how to behave and perform. These universal images, which come to us in the form of symbols, words, and other art forms have the power to further define us. They don’t dictate how we should act, but instead evoke and cultivate our true intentions and sentiments.
Art is a vital tool for social change. It exposes propaganda and the censorship of the dominant power base and gives voice to the politically and socio-economically marginalized. Art, through its imaginative imagination and clever rebirth, tells a story that can alter and positively influence people’s views and opinions. It also instills values that are beneficial to all regardless of their backgrounds and beliefs.
A Universal Language
We are changed and moved when we encounter a piece of art in the form of a painting art, a photograph or video. We can evolve when we allow the messages to reach our hearts. It is easy to forget how many times we interact with art every day. We listen to the most appropriate songs for our moods, both at home and on our way to work. We then recite the words that we have read or heard and make them our daily mantra. By sharing photos of beauty, hope, and optimism, we constantly inspire each other creatively, contributing to the collective power that brings forward positive reform.
Favianna Rodriguez, co-founder of the immigrant rights group Culture Strike, wrote a 2013 essay titled “Change the Culture, Change the World.” Social change is not only possible through artists, but also by being central to it. Cultural workers are essential to create the waves that will make them happen.
Have you ever been changed by art? Did you feel so inspired or angry by art that you wanted to keep it? ARTDEX knows exactly what that feeling is like. We are an international community of art professionals, enthusiasts, collectors, curators, and artists. We offer a platform for you to meet like-minded peers around the world so that we can continue to share stories about how art has shaped us.
Take a look at some of the Works of Art That Changed the World
1. Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci:
This famous painting by da Vinci was created between 1503 and 1519. It is considered one of the most important paintings in the history art. It is often referenced in music, movies, pop culture, paintings and books. This painting changed the face of art and brought about a revolution in the Renaissance art style.
2. The Birth of Venus by Sandro botticelli
Because of its symbolism during Renaissance, or rebirth, this painting had a profound impact on the world. It is a symbol of hope for the new civilisation, political, cultural, and social change that took place during this time.
3. Marilyn Diptych by Andy Warhol
The artwork featured three icons: Marilyn Manroe and Andy Warhol. It also showcased his pop art style. This is a symbolically modern painting that incorporates many artistic principles, such as repetition, emotional flatness and symmetry.
