The intersection of arts and political activism are two fields defined by a shared focus of creating engagement that shifts boundaries, changes relationships and … Art, equally simply stated, is an expression that generates Affect. It can give voice to the politically or socially disenfranchised. Social change doesn’t just happen, it happens because people decide to make change. In arts-based civic engagement, the creative process and resulting art work/experience can provide a key focus, catalyst, or space for civic participation, whether it is becoming better informed or actively contributing to the improvement of one’s neighborhood, community, and nation. Learn More About the Art and Social Change Artists have often played a key role in social movements in the United States, addressing issues ranging from immigration to sexism to gun violence. Many artists today are deeply committed to creating work that addresses pressing social issues and changes the way we perceive the world. A Force for Good. Some might make the case that a theatre company or a music label is a social enterprise in that it is creating and distributing products and generating a range of positive social benefits. It of course takes much strength and conviction to create art that can promote transformational social change. We can – and should – teach students that art can affect global change. Art is often a vehicle for social change. While some artists use traditional forms of art to make work that comments on, responds to, or advocates for the need for change, others are exploring new forms of “social practice” that engages communities in an interactive exchange. As a Certified B Corporation, we’ve joined the growing movement of organizations and companies that are dedicated to creating and contributing to mission-driven change. A song, film or novel can rouse emotions in those who encounter it, inspiring them to rally for change. Social change is not just something we talk about at Walden—it’s who we are. The art of progress is to preserve order amid change and to preserve change amid order. At first glance these aims seem at odds with one another. Activism moves the material world, while Art moves the heart, body and soul. Art serving as a tool for social activism or social healing is not new, but as art educators, we need to be reminded of this. As artists respond to existing cultural and political systems, the art they create can take on political and social elements, becoming a force for political and social change. First, find a compelling example. But where to start? In retrospect, the link between art, artists and the politics of the time is intrinsic. ... Today’s business leaders have to worry about addressing customer needs in a fast-paced environment impacted by social, economic, political and cultural shifts. ... inspiration from TIME’s annual “The Art of Optimism ... progress. 6 Ways Technology Is Breaking Barriers To Social Change From raising money to reaching more people, the possibilities for changemakers trying to amplify their efforts are endless. 5 ways optimism can be a force for social impact. The art world is full of enterprising individuals, companies and not-for-profits, but has relatively few good examples of social enterprise. SNL’s Chris Redd talks about working with Donald Glover, Lorne Michaels, Lil Wayne and Future, how giving up on his dream to be a rapper paved the way to SNL, and why he thinks comedy can … Researchers have long been interested in the relationship between art and the human brain. In fact, however, they are complimentary. Civic engagement can be a measure or a means of social change. 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