I call myself an artist. I make photos, music, write, and have recently picked up painting again. It is a daily struggle to remember why I create artistic objects. Sometimes there are so many possible reasons that I am overwhelmed and am unable to decide on one. The obvious options include fame, money, success, and so on; but I pursue a different calling.
Create a better conversation.
Hesitation stops me from settling on one lone statement to guide my entire artistic career, but at the moment this sentence has been revolving around in my mind. Cynicism is simple, and is easy for any artist to embrace and exude in their artwork. Joy is so much more difficult. At least, this is what I’ve found in my personal struggles and discussions with other artists.
This is why I have respect for artists like Adam Young; his lyrics are always positive and his music literally drips with happiness. It’s also why I have respect for artists like Lady Gaga; while I don’t agree with everything she does, she is a skilled artists and has pushed some things to their limit. This is why people like Martin Luther, Gandhi, and Jesus have made such a lasting impact on the world:
They are creating better conversations.
These are the ones who challenge the status quo. These are the ones who are asking the right questions. They are not afraid to get dirt in between their finger nails, or to take a bullet to the chest, or to carry their cross. They are the rebelutionaries of their time. So I challenge you to fight for what you believe in, to speak for the ones who cannot, and;
Create a better conversation.
