ART AND REBELLION - (Notes to self)
The influence of Art over our social and political dynamic cannot be overstated. Throughout different cultures, times and periods, Art has always been more than just a craft or a hobby but a voice and an element that can cause ripples of change throughout the millennial.
Taking a look at the history of art, I observed that there were several instances when art was solely controlled by those in power.
It was used as a tool for dominion and propaganda over the masses. It wasn't long before several free-thinkers began to rebel, then underground and rebellious art began to gain a footing.
Some time in history, Book burnings were used a form of backlash against rebellious art.
An Italian poet, Giuseppe Ungaretti, once said and I quote;
The foundation of poetry is to transgress all laws: "I am a poet and as such I begin transgressing all the laws by doing poetry". source
Throughout several cultures and times, a lot of artists, poets, writers, have been exiled or even sentenced to death because of the rebellious power they wielded over the masses through their artworks.
In the 18th century, One of Russia's greatest poet Alexander Pushkin was exiled by his government because of his famous poetry Ode to liberty.
Also, taking a look at my country, a prominent Nigerian musician and a pioneer of afro-beat in the 50's, Fela Kuti, became a victim of government abuse, incarceration and harassment because of his anti-military government and anti-corruption message in his music.
I am sure we can all name several prominent artists that have been censored or maltreated by the government, there are even several conspiracy theories out there about government assassinations.
The History of rebellion and art is indeed very strong.
REBELLIOUS ART VS CENSORSHIP
In the present times today, we see rebellious art and media in an ongoing battle against censorship. I once read an article about the boy whose graffiti started the war in Syria.
Even in social media, Art is also used as a form of rebellion as it faces censorship and scrutiny by those in power.
There are so many instances of rebellious art we see all around us and It is evident that art will always be used as a form of rebellion.
What do you all think about this? You can tell me in the comments, thanks for reading :-)
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Let us create the community we desire.
Art show what we want express.
You've got that right bro :-) . and freedom of expression in a censored environment is what causes art to rebel.
I agree. I think this would be a great theme for a Steemit art contest since we have a great art community on Steemit. I think many of us in various countries could use a good dose of artistic rebellion.
That is some good thinking mate. It would be a plus for the art community. thanks for passing by and for the resteem as well. cheers :-)
Science Fiction writer, and poet,Ursula K. Le Guin, said:
I think this is the sort of statement that sums up what you are getting at. Art is true expression. Often what needs expressing the most is that which runs contrary to popular culture and the norm. Thus art is a form of rebellion open to all of us.
Deep thought!
Thanks for your input. The tough rule of dictatorship govt. is what triggers rebellious art, which also reminds me of the Soviet Nonconformist art or the degenerate art museum in Nazi germany. The history of art and rebellion goes deep and element of such can be found in underground or street art today.
I concur. Fela is a model for me. Art should be a means of expression, and should be use to combat injustices.
Thanks for your input fam, Fela lives on
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Proud to see Fela there. I can understand art as a form of expression, a personal or emotional one. But political? What's their business?
yeah, fela made a legacy. interesting question you asked... The business is power. Art has been used as a tool for propaganda because of its influence.
If something wrong is done over time it becomes a norm or a status quo. Arts is here to challenge existing status quo.
Great piece dear!
Thanks for reading dear. glad you enjoyed it.