Two different ways to engage with current affairs through art in today’s blog post.
I’m not even asking the question if art should engage with current affairs. To me, it’s a given: if art is about self-expression (we can debate that question), then it will end up reflecting the world of the artist. And yes, cartooning is art. It takes considerable skill, especially when it looks easy.
1. “These haunting underwater photos portray climate change in a new way” (CNN, Nov. 4)
Haunting images.The article also describes how the artist worked with the local community to create this project. Here’s the most chilling part of the entire piece, to me:
“Somebody said it was quite post-apocalyptic. And I said, ‘No, it’s pre-apocalyptic.’ Because it hasn’t actually happened to these people yet.”
Nick Brandt, photographer
2. Cartooning that Oxfam report on billionaires
Oxfam published a report on the impact of billionaires on emissions. Part of the problem is their lifestyle, jetting around the globe in their private airplanes and consuming a disproportionate amount of … well, anything, to be honest. Big new angle in this report is the research on the impact of their investments. That shows their impact is far worse than you’d think. With COP28 on the go, this report now has gained traction, so you’ll see lots of stats bandied around. If you’re confused, remember your friendly cartooning and illustrator friends are always ready to bring clarity in complex affairs with a light touch, and First Dog on the Moon is no exception. Head on over to the Guardian and read the full comic!
What a powerful combination of different approaches in this post; THANK YOU.
Thanks! I hope to bring more of these as I find art incredibly useful to touch people where other forms of communication can’t. THIS IS WHY WE NEED ARTISTS!