Thoughts on Social Commentary through Contemporary Art

I’ve always been interested in social commentary through art. The subtleties of cartoonists and illustrators first piqued my interest in my teen years as I began to realize that there were messages within the art and illustration. Early influences were Norman Rockwell, Charles Schultz, Gary Trudeau, and Cathy Lee Guisewite. Later in art school during art history classes, I discovered abstract artists who were doing more than matching colors and shapes but who were delving into current events and often controversial topics through their artwork. I found this fascinating and I still do. I love art that is more than decor but asks the viewer “Hey, what do you think about this?” Current events often serve as powerful sources of inspiration for artists. They can evoke emotions, spark discussions, and prompt creative responses. Artists may use their work to reflect on social, political, and environmental issues, allowing their art to become a commentary on the world around them. Whether it’s through visual art, music, literature, or other forms, the influence of current events on art can result in thought-provoking and impactful creations. My focus is on painting but I admire all forms that creative arts can take. <a href="https://medium.com/@maryannthipie/thoughts-on-social-commentary-through-contemporary-art-fe057a81a0b6">Learn More</a>