Can Art Change the World?

This question comes up a lot with my artist friends. The argument sometimes is that creating is an indulgence when there is much work to be done to make the world a better place.
It’s a fair point but I don’t know that I agree. Here’s why:

1. The act of creating is soothing and therapeutic making it an important way to maintain equilibrium in times of sadness and fear. Through it we can be hopeful. We need hope to fight.
2. We can use our creativity to shine a light on injustice or to let our voices be heard. Look at the work of Sarah Corbett or Amplifier for more inspiration.
3. Art expands the mind, asks questions and communicates in a way that demands our attention, making it a rebellious thing. If this was not the case, the Nazis would not have spent so much time into destroying art nor would other current oppressive regimes persecute poets, filmmakers etc.
4. To fight our way out of oppression requires creativity to envision a new world that serves humanity fully with equity for everyone. Art makers are lateral thinkers and problem solvers, these are essential skills for dissent and revolution.
5. The act of art making for no other purpose than to express the self is an act of defiance against capitalism that seeks to commodify every part of us.

So go ahead and take up arms against oppression through your paint brushes and pencils. The pen truly is mightier than the sword.