Asking Questions and Providing Answers Through Art

As artists we are naturally creative thinkers. When we look at the world we see something we can change – something we can make better. That is why it is only natural for there to be a certain amount of social discourse among artists.

When we see problems like the casualties of war and negative impacts of global warming, we are naturally inclined to, first, question and, second, offer our opinions and, occasionally, our solutions. Sometimes these questions and answers come in written form like poetry and novels. Other times, they can be seen on canvases and digital displays. In either case, they are our artistic representations of the wrong that we see and the right that we want to see.

The last few years have been very tumultuous years for our country and our world. The discourse in societies in nearly every corner of our planet gains momentum every day. As this happens, we are captivated by each question and each suggested answer.

This idea is the premise behind my gallery’s upcoming show. The show is titled Social Discourse: An Arts Experience. Its main purpose is to give Michigan artists – as the Lansing Art Gallery’s primary mission is to support our artists right here in Michigan – the opportunity to ask their questions and offer their answers on the current events and social issues of our time.

The art and the way it addresses the subject matter is so compelling. I realize this may seem like a plug and maybe it is. However, I truly believe the subject matter from this show is both timely and important.

As artists, our work is both an expression ourselves and a creation of something that is intended to improve the world in which we live. The questions that are being asked and answered through the artwork in this show provide a little insight into the minds of our Michigan artists and the issues that are important to them – issues that are likely important to all of us, as well.

Here’s to artists inspiring change. Here’s to art.