Art and Everything After https://artandeverythingafter.com Equality, Diversity and Justice Through Art Fri, 02 Jun 2023 20:00:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 How Black Artists Can Affect Social Change https://artandeverythingafter.com/how-black-artists-can-affect-social-change/ https://artandeverythingafter.com/how-black-artists-can-affect-social-change/#respond Fri, 02 Jun 2023 20:00:21 +0000 https://artandeverythingafter.com/?p=91 Read more

]]>
Art has long been a powerful tool in shaping society and driving social change, with black artists playing an essential role throughout history. From stirring musical performances to thought-provoking visuals, these creatives have used their talents to challenge norms, raise awareness about racial inequities, and inspire generations of activists.

Today, the influence of African American artists continues to grow as technology amplifies their voices and reaches across the globe. Yet challenges persist in achieving equal representation and support within the artistic community.

_______________________________________________________________________

Key Takeaways

  • Black artists have historically and continue to use their artistic expression as a tool for social change, utilizing various forms of art to spark conversation and advocate for marginalized communities.
  • The lack of diversity within the art industry can create barriers for black artists seeking recognition, but amplification through technology and social media has enabled greater visibility and opportunities for representation.
  • Advocating for political and social change through art can come with risks and challenges regarding censorship, financial support, and backlash from opposition; recognizing the importance of diverse voices is crucial in promoting cultural progression.

_______________________________________________________________________

The Impact Of Art In Driving Social Change

Art has the power to shape society and public opinion, including its impact on social justice movements; people of color have played a significant role in contributing to the arts and promoting social change.

The Role Of Art In Shaping Society And Public Opinion

The power of art to shape society and public opinion is both immense and transformative. As a means of creative expression, it allows artists to showcase their talents and provide commentary on social, political, and cultural issues that affect the world around them.

Throughout history, various forms of artistic expression have resonated with audiences by pushing boundaries or illuminating critical perspectives on pressing societal matters.

Take, for example Picasso’s 1937 painting “Guernica”, which served as a powerful anti-war statement amidst the atrocities committed during Spanish Civil War. Similarly, Keith Haring’s graffiti-inspired murals in New York City during the 1980s brought attention to issues such as LGBTQ rights and drug addiction.

The Contributions Of People Of Color To The Arts And Their Impact On Social Justice Movements

People of color have significantly contributed to the arts, using their platforms to advocate for social justice and drive change. From photography to literature, music to film-making, artists of color have pushed boundaries and sparked important conversations about race, inequality and representation.

For instance, Langston Hughes’ “I too, sing America” is a powerful testament that celebrates African American culture despite marginalization while filmmakers like Spike Lee’s Do The Right Thing(1989) used visual storytelling to ignite activism and challenge systemic racism in society.

These works shed light on the experiences of marginalized communities and challenged mainstream narratives about race.

The Historical And Contemporary Impact Of Black Artists In Promoting Social Change

The impact of black artists on promoting social change is undeniable, both historically and in contemporary times. From the Harlem Renaissance to the Black Lives Matter movement, African American artists have used their talents to shed light on social issues and advocate for change.

Painters such as Basquiat and Kehinde Wiley have addressed themes of identity, race, and power dynamics through their artwork. Musicians like Nina Simone and Kendrick Lamar have used music as a tool for political commentary while also speaking out against systemic racism in society.

Black Artists Spurring Social Change

Black artists have been using various forms of expression, including music and visual arts, to promote social justice and political action, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in the industry.

The Use Of Music, Visual Arts, And Other Forms Of Expression By Black Artists To Promote Social Justice And Political Action

Black artists have long used their talent and creativity to promote social justice and political action. Through music, visual arts, literature, dance, and other forms of expression, they have conveyed powerful messages of resistance against inequality and oppression.

For example, Nina Simone’s “Mississippi Goddam” was a protest song against racial violence and injustice in the South during the 1960s civil rights movement.

More recently, Kendrick Lamar’s album “To Pimp a Butterfly” addressed issues like police brutality and racism in America.

The Importance Of Diversity And Representation In The Art Industry

Diversity and representation are essential in the art industry because they allow underrepresented artists to showcase their work and influence cultural narratives.

The lack of diversity in creative industries has been widely documented, with marginalized groups often facing barriers to entry due to institutional biases.

For example, painter Kerry James Marshall’s work explores the exclusion of black figures from traditional Western art history while also celebrating African American culture.

His contributions have influenced other artists’ works and inspired conversations about representation in the art world.

The Influence Of Technology And Social Media In Amplifying Voices

In recent years, advancements in technology and the rise of social media have significantly impacted promoting social change through art. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok provide artists with an unprecedented ability to share their work and amplify their messages to a global audience.

This is especially true for black artists who may not have access to traditional promotion avenues due to systemic barriers. For example, when Childish Gambino released his music video “This Is America” in 2018, it quickly went viral on social media platforms due to its powerful commentary on gun violence and racism in America.

Furthermore, technological advances also allow for more diverse forms of artistic expression beyond what was previously possible. From digital art installations that use augmented reality technology to virtual concerts experienced from living rooms worldwide, new technologies are democratizing access to creative expression while enabling black artists’ voices back into history’s pages.

The Challenges Of Promoting Social Change Through Art

Institutional bias in the art industry can prevent black artists from accessing opportunities to promote social change.

Barriers To Entry And Institutional Bias In The Art Industry

The art industry has long been criticized for lacking diversity and institutional bias, preventing many black artists from gaining the recognition they deserve.

Entry barriers can include high tuition fees to attend prestigious art schools, limited access to resources such as studio space and materials, and a lack of representation in galleries or museums.

These injustices have resulted in an ongoing struggle for black artists seeking recognition for their work. However, despite facing significant obstacles, many continue to push forward using their artistic expression as a tool for education and advocacy.

The Risks And Challenges Of Advocating For Political And Social Change Through Art

Advocating for political and social change through art can be a risky endeavor. Artists who choose to use their work as a platform for change often face criticism, censorship, and backlash from those who oppose their message.

Many artists risk having their work labeled as controversial or inappropriate, which can lead to limited opportunities for exposure and financial support.

Despite these challenges, many black artists continue to use their creative expression as a tool for advocacy and social change. From musicians like Nina Simone and Kendrick Lamar using music as a catalyst for change to visual artists like Kara Walker using provocative imagery in her artwork to spark dialogue around race relations- these individuals have used their artistic influence to bring attention to issues that impact marginalized communities.

The Importance Of Support And Recognition For Black Artists

It’s essential to recognize and support black artists in their efforts to promote social change through their art. Unfortunately, the institutional bias and barriers to entry in the art industry have often made it difficult for many black artists to gain recognition for their work.

By providing black artists with opportunities for representation, financial backing, and networking resources, we can help them better advocate for political action and societal progress through their artistic expression.

Additionally, uplifting black creatives encourages greater visibility of African American culture at large, promoting empathy across diverse communities while empowering those who may feel misrepresented or silenced by mainstream media outlets.

The Potential Of Black Art In Driving Social Change And Progress

Black art has the potential to bridge cultural divides and promote empathy, understanding, and social progress through creative resistance and political commentary.

The Historical And Ongoing Impact Of Black Artists In Promoting Social Justice And Driving Social Change

Black artists have had a crucial role in promoting social justice and driving social change throughout history.

Through their artwork, black artists have tackled issues ranging from racial inequality and police brutality to gender identity and immigration policies. Their work has often reflected marginalized communities’ experiences while also acting as a catalyst for broader conversations about equity, diversity, and inclusion.

The Potential For Art To Bridge Cultural Divides And Promote Empathy And Understanding

Art has a profound ability to bring people together, regardless of their background or beliefs. It can provide a platform for open dialogue and understanding between cultures, especially in today’s world, where divisiveness and polarization are rampant.

Through art, we can explore different perspectives and better appreciate diverse experiences.

Additionally, contemporary black artists continue to use their platform to promote empathy and understanding through creative expression. Beyonce’s visual album “Lemonade” delves into themes such as racial injustice and infidelity with powerful imagery that resonates with audiences across racial lines, while Kendrick Lamar’s music often speaks directly to issues facing his community like police brutality.

The Importance Of Celebrating And Supporting Black Artists In Promoting Social Progress.

Celebrating and supporting black artists in their efforts to promote social progress is crucial. By recognizing and appreciating the contributions of black artists, we can help elevate their voices and messages that call for change.

For example, musicians like Kendrick Lamar and Beyoncé have used their platform to address issues such as police brutality against black people and empowering women of color.

Visual artists like Kara Walker challenge traditional notions of race, power dynamics, and history through her thought-provoking artwork. Supporting these types of works helps create a more inclusive art industry and contributes to positive change in society.

Final Thoughts

Black artists have played a crucial role in promoting social change and advocating for racial justice throughout history. Through the power of artistic expression, they have challenged cultural norms, sparked political action and inspired empathy and understanding.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including institutional bias within the art industry and risks associated with political commentary, black artists continue to pave the way for progressive change through their creativity and dedication to advocacy.

As society continues to evolve towards greater diversity and inclusion, it is important that we celebrate and support black artists in driving social progress forward.

Let’s keep fighting for diversity empowerment together!

]]>
https://artandeverythingafter.com/how-black-artists-can-affect-social-change/feed/ 0
Why Diversity Training Is More Important Now Than Ever https://artandeverythingafter.com/why-diversity-training-is-more-important-now-than-ever/ https://artandeverythingafter.com/why-diversity-training-is-more-important-now-than-ever/#respond Tue, 17 May 2022 01:27:28 +0000 https://artandeverythingafter.com/?p=86 Read more

]]>
The year 2020 was a roller coaster of events for the people of the United States of America and other global citizens. Two significant developments have imprinted themselves as the major landmarks for at least the first two quarters of the year, the continuing COVID-19 pandemic and the death of George Floyd, which has been termed racism pandemic. The latter brought forth issues of racism and police brutality, which subsequently sparked protests not only in the United States of America but globally. The death of George Floyd that happened on 25th May 2020 has sparked a conversation that has often been neglected by most people, a conversation on diversity and inclusion, especially in the workplace. In the pursuit to give the subject of diversity a holistic approach, training is one sure way of promoting diversity through the education of workers on the impact diversity has in their daily interaction both within and outside the workplace.

What exactly does training on diversity mean?

Over the years, my work as an attorney has often involved giving legal business advice to various businesses on the subject, creating a healthy working environment. One opinion I have never gotten tired of voicing out is; an investment in diversity training. In simple words, training on diversity is inculcating in employees the spirit of working together regardless of their racial background. The result of such a training being; creation of a discrimination-free working environment.

Most of my clients who took the initiative to invest in training can attest to the positive results realized within their businesses. When employees from different backgrounds work together, both your business and their communities benefit. Notably, while training on the importance of diversity has been beneficial even in the previous years, 2020 has further proven why this type of training needs to be taken seriously.

Here is why training on diversity is more important than ever in 2022:

 Reduction of employment disputes based on discrimination

As an employer, discrimination based on race might not necessarily come from you. If you run your business through the help of managers and supervisors, their style of execution of business tasks might appear discriminatory to an employee from a particular racial class. The year 2020 created a scenario whereby most people are now able to speak up and cite injustices wherever they feel aggrieved.

Employees who previously condoned racial discrimination at the workplace due to the fear of losing their job have now been empowered and can no longer be silenced. Therefore as an employer, if you are not working towards setting up internal business rules to help curb racism at the workplace, then avoiding discrimination lawsuits is going to be hard. Private employers have expressly been noted as the harbours of racism; acting now can help save your business reputation from the stereotype.  Only through providing equity eduction to your staff will you truly be making an impact on bias, racism, and equality.

The 1964 Civil Rights Act is a statute that prohibits discrimination in the workplace based on race. Employers found liable for such discrimination risk a bad reputation coupled with payment of monetary damages to the aggrieved employee. Internal measures involving mandatory inclusion training can curtail racial discrimination in the workplace. Never treat racial discrimination as a small issue because when the issue escalates, the results are often chaotic, just like the events that took place after the death of George Floyd.

 Increase of employee engagement

The best time ever to change your employees’ perspective on race than in the year 2020. Expressing to your employees through inclusion training the value of working together regardless of race can yield positive results, e.g. employees partaking in inclusive actions and thinking, subsequently leading to a productive work environment.

Over the years, I have always emphasized to my clients that having a detailed company constitution that captures every sensitive area that can harm a business. Having an express clause outlawing any racially motivated actions against individuals can help employees without knowledge of Federal and state-level laws on employment to understand that racial discrimination is illegal.

 Creation of an inclusive culture

The year 2020 has shown the effects of racial discrimination and its impact on the economy. Apart from companies found liable for racial discrimination having to part with millions of dollars in damages, looting, and violence are some of the most grievous results of racism. Therefore curbing discrimination even just at the company level helps create awareness on diversity in society. After work, your employees will retreat to the community, and the probability of an employee knowledgeable on diversity, creating awareness to those around them is high.

Additionally, an employee who has gone through inclusion training will be quick to note unconscious bias as a barrier to inclusion and diversity. Therefore for such an employee, correcting the wrong before it escalates is easy because they already know the importance of an inclusive working environment.

 Breaks down racial power structures

Before training on diversity and inclusion occurs, some power structures within a company are normal for most people. Training, therefore, creates workplace diversity hence breaking down unconscious bias. The conflicts that might arise from breaking down racial power structures are often a small challenge that any company can handle. It is better to deal with employees complaining about the dissolution of certain bodies founded on racial grounds than have a lawsuit based on racial discrimination coming your way.

Notably, there is so much that your business can gain when there is workplace diversity than scenarios where a particular race of people are left out of significant company decisions because of skin colour. Therefore while society at large struggles with racism, be the patriot this country deserves by investing in training that matters and, in particular, training on diversity and inclusion.

Components of a good training course on diversity

For training on diversity to be successful, there are some components that employers need to pay attention to. In my journey as an attorney, I have had the chance to interact with various facilitators on the subject of diversity, and three components have always stood out.

The very first component is that leaders within the organization have to acknowledge the importance of having training on inclusion and diversity. As an employer, the training should not be something you undertake due to current trends but an internalized decision; you must show willingness and express the importance of the training to your employees. Commitment in training should always be from the leadership, and the subordinates will subsequently follow suit. Success in the training on diversity and inclusion will only happen when true commitment is expressed in the entire process.

Secondly, the content used in training has to communicate directly to the leadership by providing usable tools and business case information for diversity and inclusion. Here is an example of one such training program.

The third component is a call to action. Training on diversity should not be an exercise in futility; most employers tend to relapse, and operations go back to normal. A good trainer will ensure that employers are held accountable by having them showcase their execution and development plans. The leading cause of lack of workplace diversity often comes from leadership. Therefore as an employer, you need to ensure the training yields results in your workplace.

How employees benefit from training on diversity and inclusion

 Rise in innovation
Human beings are gifted differently hence having a different approach to problems. Employees who have very little knowledge of diverse groups are known to make uninformed decisions, especially in the work environment. Employers that want to yield a creative and innovative human resource that can easily find solutions to problems that a business battle with have to invest in training on inclusion and diversity to help attain those results. When employees can work together, then achieving your business goals also becomes easy.

 Teamwork
The greatest wish for most employees is to find an employment platform that gives them the freedom of interaction without fear. Creating a diverse working environment for your employees will provide them with the confidence to interact with other employees knowing full well that culture, background, skin colour and even age is not an issue.

 Career development
When an employee lands a job in their dream company, the hope is that they will stay longer and grow their skills and experience. However, when the dream job turns out to be a racist den, such employees are likely to quit and look for employment elsewhere. Therefore, as an employer, investing in training that matters can help retain such employees longer since they see a chance of growth within your company.

In general, training on diversity is something that every employer needs to have a keen interest in. As earlier on indicated, most employees at the end of the day retreat home to a community with people from different races. Therefore, training on diversity and inclusion in the workplace can go a long way towards changing the mentality of most people, not just in the workplace but also in their communities. There is still hope for racism to end in the United States of America and awareness on diversity within your business can go a long way in creating a racist free future United States of America.

]]>
https://artandeverythingafter.com/why-diversity-training-is-more-important-now-than-ever/feed/ 0
How African American Art Differs From Other Ethnicities https://artandeverythingafter.com/how-african-american-art-differs-from-other-ethnicities/ https://artandeverythingafter.com/how-african-american-art-differs-from-other-ethnicities/#respond Fri, 20 Nov 2020 06:38:37 +0000 https://artandeverythingafter.com/?p=68 Read more

]]>
As I’ve discussed previously, African American art is unique. African American art traces its roots from African slaves brought to the United States for labor. Slaves came to America equipped with traditions and skills that they attained from their homeland. African Americans have immensely contributed to American culture, but the contributions were unrecognized as a result of violence from slavery and racism. However, the oppression did not deter them as they went on to develop art and create literature that mirrored their experiences. One of the peaks for the artists was witnessed in the Harlem Renaissance, which is a literary period that focused on black people. Some of the art they came with include woodcarving, basket weaving, and metalwork. You can see their expertise in art in items such as clay vessels and hand-sewn quilts.

Comparison to other Ethnicities

Art lovers are awestruck by African American art due to its unique characteristics and designs that are a reflection of the diverse and rich history and culture of different African American roots and origins. The art is in the form of paintings, sculptures, dolls, and masks that people purchase to decorate their living spaces or add their art collection.

While comparing to art from other ethnicities such as the Latino, their art commenced as a nationalist venture in the 19th century. Its inspiration came from independence movements that happened when the 19th century started. For example, when creating visual arts, the artists were taught amateurs who were mainly foreigners, architects, or priests. This is contrary to African Americans who were less privileged, where they had to experience slavery.

Latino art took on the form of a travel catalogue where each piece of art was a reminder of where they have been. Artists had little history in the art culture of their people; hence they depicted their art out of their travel experiences. This has turned out to be significant, especially after the church in Mexico and other countries lost some of its property and its contents plundered; art by the travelers became the only source of documentation.

On the other hand, Hispanic art has a distinct style that has been transformed into various mediums in the art industry. However, this does mean that Hispanic art is devoid of creativity and ingenuity. Hispanic artists maintain traditions and break molds by adapting to current lifestyles and still keep the robust signature mode of their culture. Art enthusiasts appreciate Hispanic art, but people with Hispanic heritage appreciate it more deeply. Also, the works of art let the world know about Hispanic culture.

Unique Characteristics that distinguish African American Art

Lively Form –

African American art that depicts human beings is characterized by extended arms, legs, extended necks, and pointed breasts. These are some notable vigorous forms that describe this art, which represents power, vigor, and human boldness.

Stylized Practicality –

Different African American art pieces are made to look like human forms and sometimes merge animals and humans. However, the human art forms are not realistic but are in the form of stylized designs. For example, a doll that takes the form of a human being may have unequal body parts.

Geometric Figure –

A lot of African American art features geometric figures, patterns, and themes. For instance, when making a mask in an art form, the artist can use circles, curves, and ovals to bring out a more unified and striking effect.

Intricate Particulars –

This type of art is unique as it features fine craftsmanship where intricate details are emphasized with skill and precision. These details clearly distinguish African American art from other ethnicities.

Youthful Look –

A part of African American culture emphasizes on good health, physical strength, vigor, and youthfulness. This trait is traceable to earlier days before slavery while they hunted and built their villages and only the young and strong survived slavery.

Other ethnic groups have come to appreciate African American art as they have come to realize that the art is not just a wall hanging. It is an essential part of everyday life as it has meaning and principle that turns it into art. They do not create art for the sake of it but for having a deeper and more purposeful life that helps them better understand the world.

African Americans originated from different parts of Africa. This fact contributes to the creation of art that depicts various beliefs and culture concerning history, region, religion, and culture. The art that African Americans make is tied to their daily living. The type of material used on a piece of art depends on the people’s origin as the creation of art is a skill that is passed down to generations.

In conclusion, the purpose of art is to bring out ideas, status, beliefs, and the workmanship of a group of people. People from other cultures learn about the origin and history of African Americans through their art. Various platforms showcase African American artists such as Black History Month, which celebrates the history of African Americans. You can also find African American art in museums and art exhibitions near your location. A people’s art is an easy way to find out about their history and culture.

]]>
https://artandeverythingafter.com/how-african-american-art-differs-from-other-ethnicities/feed/ 0
How Creating Art Can Help Reduce Stress In Your Life https://artandeverythingafter.com/how-creating-art-can-help-reduce-stress-in-your-life/ https://artandeverythingafter.com/how-creating-art-can-help-reduce-stress-in-your-life/#respond Sat, 10 Oct 2020 06:22:07 +0000 https://artandeverythingafter.com/?p=65 Read more

]]>
When it comes to leading a healthy lifestyle, stress is a major factor.  In 2020, it’s even more of a stressor given the politics and the racial tensions. But life stresses are brought about by a variety of reasons like demands from our workplaces, the economy, pressure from our environment, family and friends, past events, or even the economy. When stress occurs repeatedly, it will affect our health, both mentally and physically.

One of the major relievers of stress is creating art. It gives room for positive ways of stress processing and managing emotions of the events of both past and present. Art distracts your mind and gives it a break far from the worries of life and anxiety that causes uncertainty, and depression, therefore, offering the mind some therapy.

Despite adults having the feeling that they are not good in art and that it belongs to kids, the talented ones, and professionals, it benefits from being therapeutic. They need to understand that the end product is barely useful, and the emphasis is on the art creation process to aid in stress relief.

Art creation stimulates the release of a chemical known as dopamine from the body. Anytime we engage ourselves in something that gives us pleasure, the chemical is released, and it makes us happier. This neurotransmitter is very important in battling anxiety or depression. Art gives you the advantage of leaving you with a beautiful thing to show.

Its involvement takes all the concentration, therefore, improving performance, and lowering the levels of stress. In regards to research, art has been found to reduce stress levels within 45 minutes of participation. Art ameliorates stress in several ways. They include:

Acting as a Self-Care Form

Despite the responsibilities and challenges of life, we deserve care to self and some downtime. Part of our time needs to be set aside for our hobbies. Your hobbies tend to give you a chance away from reality, the harshness of life, and some tranquility and contentment.

“State of Flow”

In this case, the flow is described as being completely engaged, especially the involvement of your attention in carrying out an activity. Like contemplation, this flow is likely to improve not only performance but also lower stress levels.

There are certain activities that when you practice them, they help you experience this kind of flow. The activities include; drawing, painting, gardening, playing a sport, writing, or practicing an instrument such as the piano, the guitar, or even the violin.

Taking Things Off Your Mind

Creating art takes away your stresses from your mind for a while. It is not easy to keep on dwelling on the meditation of your troubles when your mind is focused on something else. However, if, in any case, your problems keep bogging your mind, then you can include those same problems in your art, and by the time you are through, you will have a mind that is a bit clear, and ready to handle and solve your problems.

There are books to aid in this art therapy. These books provide guidelines to your mind for drawing and painting in such a way that anyone can do, and professionalism is not focused on. Another way aside from the use of these particular books is keeping a journal for art creation.

This journal should include things that please the victim affected and also those that make him, or her feel grateful, not forgetting those that he or she finds beauty in. These could be dreams and desires that bring joy and contentment.

Other than the journal, you could also draw something that is referred to as mandala. This is in the shape of a circle. In it, colors and shapes are filled. Once you create yours, you are allowed to use symbols as representations of your life events. You do not have to put your concentration on the exact events. It is just a way of processing your life story less harshly and painfully.

Bringing to a pattern the colors you like helps you focus, therefore distracting you from worry and enabling you to relieve stress. Another way is also undergoing art therapy with a specialist. He or she takes you through an art creating a session that manages even depression and anxiety. People living with PTSD also express lesser symptoms after undergoing this kind of art therapy. In addition to being a stress relief, creating art also stimulates the brain’s pleasure, the provision of emotional resilience, and improvement to self-esteem.

In conclusion, creating art does relieve not only mental stress but also physical. Once your mind is relaxed, the body also tends to find rest. Regardless of whether you are an artist, do not resist using these criteria of drawing and painting as a stress reliever. Its working has been proved. However, Girija Kaimal, a researcher, claims that this stress control method is more effective in younger people than in the aged.

]]>
https://artandeverythingafter.com/how-creating-art-can-help-reduce-stress-in-your-life/feed/ 0
2020 Presidential Election and Impact on African Americans https://artandeverythingafter.com/2020-presidential-election-and-impact-on-african-americans/ https://artandeverythingafter.com/2020-presidential-election-and-impact-on-african-americans/#respond Wed, 23 Sep 2020 06:08:25 +0000 https://artandeverythingafter.com/?p=61 Read more

]]>
When it comes to the 2020 presidential election it is extremely easy to find negatives about either party’s candidates. All you have to do is watch the main stream news outlets to find the Democrat’s view of President Donald Trump, and then it doesn’t take much searching, including Fox News, to find the Republican’s view of Vice President Joe Biden. But what are the true pros and cons of each candidate specifically for African Americans?

Candidate Donald Trump

Let’s first take a look at the incumbent, President Donald Trump. Despite what most left wing media says, he has actually done a decent amount for the African American community. In August of 2019 unemployment among African Americans hit its all time low of 5.4% which was towards the tail end of a steady decline since the president came into office. January of 2020 saw an uptick to 6.0% before the pandemic went into full swing. Wages for African Americans have been on the rise to help with the low unemployment. These two things combined have drastically changed the lives of many in the U.S. To go with this, tax cuts have helped keep money in the pockets of hard working African Americans. More money in the pockets of Americans of color help keep the entire economy strong and going in a positive direction. Many of the tax cuts the president has given are focused on low-income areas that are targeted at African Americans to help those in poverty.

What about the cons? Has President Donald Trump only helped the African American community? One thing his administration did was cut funding to halfway housing hurting those attempting to turn their life around after prison. Prison reform has been a big issue and many view the president as lacking in that area. To make that worse, while unemployment did sink to its lowest in history under the president, it has also skyrocketed in the last several months. Yes there is a pandemic, but why has the African American community suffered so? It reached its short term peak in May at 16.8% and is currently at 14.6% as of July.

Candidate Joe Biden

Vice President Joe Biden on the other hand has been a supporter of the African American community. Should Biden win the presidency he plans to implement policy that builds and sustains wealth in their communities. He plans on implementing housing and education policies that give first time home buyers up to $15,000 down payment assistance; He plans to invest in HBCUs and MSIs; He’ll also double funding for small business assistance especially for businesses owned by people of color. Another great aspect of Joe Biden’s plan is expanding Obamacare allowing those with low income to be able to afford healthcare. Without assistance healthcare is extremely expensive, but Joe Biden plans to combat that through government assistance. He also plans to triple funding for schools with a high percentage of low-income students. Biden also plans on funding education beyond high school. His plan is to provide two years of community college or other high-end training. More specific to the African American community he plans on investing over $70 billion to HBCUs and other minority focused educational institutions.

For all of the good he plans on doing Vice President Joe Biden does still have some cons for the African American community. Whether intentional or not, Biden has made several racist remarks recently and was involved in several segregation movements in the 1970s. In 1974 he voted to keep schools segregated and turned against the Democrats who were pushing the “forced busing” laws. His law enforcement policies he has pushed in the 1980s and 1990s have put more African Americans in prison than any other. While many view law enforcement as an entity that focuses on the African American community, Joe Biden has work tirelessly to write the laws that entity enforces.

Impact of Election on African American Community

It goes without saying that 2020 has been a significant year for African Americans. No matter who you go with there is no perfect candidate. Both have pros, both have cons. Whoever wins, African Americans will specifically be impacted and their lives will change. Both men claim to support and work hard for people of color, but both parties claim the other candidate hate people of color. Educate yourself well and find the facts. Find what both men say, and then what they do. Make your choice based on actions.

]]>
https://artandeverythingafter.com/2020-presidential-election-and-impact-on-african-americans/feed/ 0
The Benefits of Creating Art For School Aged Children https://artandeverythingafter.com/the-benefits-of-creating-art-for-school-aged-children/ https://artandeverythingafter.com/the-benefits-of-creating-art-for-school-aged-children/#respond Wed, 02 Sep 2020 05:47:06 +0000 https://artandeverythingafter.com/?p=56 Read more

]]>
We have different types of arts that can be created for school-aged children. There are several benefits related to the arts during the child’s development. Art has been there for the longest time and it defines how civilization has taken place and the traditions and culture of a certain group. Art has also been used as a form of therapy to help people overcome stress and other kinds of illness. Some people also earn a leaving using their skills in art. Art has also been used to bring people together as they express their skills. We are going to look at the benefits of art to school-aged kids.

1. Kids and Their Motor Skills
Art brings out several types of motor skills that can be beneficial to the kids. These are:
 The gross motor skills- this involves activities such as drawing, scribbling, painting, and scribbling which initiates coordination’s between the brain and the muscles.
 Fine motor skill- the activities involved like the use of scissors will help exercise fingers and hands muscles.
 Coordination between hand and eye-when undertaking art activity like drawing the eye guides our hands on what to do. These activities help the kid improve on the hand and eye coordination.

2. Children can improve their language skills
Art can help in developing the kids’ communication skills and develop their vocabulary.
 Language skills-art will give the kids a chance to talk about their favorite colors and shapes. They can also describe what they are doing this helps them in developing their vocabulary.
 Comprehension skills-art helps the kind have a better understanding of what is going on around them. They also get to learn how certain things are done and comprehend.
 Literacy-art activities will help your kids learn to listen write and speaking making them more literate.

3. Boosts the Child’s Brain Power
Art involves the kids in thinking on how to do think and get creative thus developing their brains.
 Higher IQ-creative thinking will help the kids develop higher IQ although it has not been proven.
 Critical thinking-art involves the brain and activities such as modeling will make the kids think about how to come up with better creations.
 Visual learning-art involves more of what you see. The kids can learn from seeing what is being done. This is an important skill in our day to day lives.
 Improved creativity and craftsmanship- kids get to be innovative at a young age when trying to come up with a unique piece of art.
 Improved imagination- kids can use their imagination to come up with a piece of art may it be modeling or an art.

4. Creates Cultural Awareness
Through the use of arts, we can educate the kids on different cultures around the world. The kids can learn that different people have different beliefs and cultural practices. The kids will learn to accept those who are who do things in a different way from them. This will prevent discrimination among kids from different cultures and backgrounds.

5. Build on Social Life Skills
In life, we have some essential skills that can be learned and developed from art. These life skills include:
 Teamwork-kids can connect with their peers while with the same interest while carrying out their activities like modeling. Working together helps them build on teamwork.
 Learn to follow an instructions-any piece of artwork usually has some guidelines on how to go about it. The ability to follow instructions is an important life skill.
 Improving social skills-when the kids have an art project where they are working together it will help them develop on their social skills.
 Gives the kids sense of responsibility- while working on an art project the kid will have to take care of it. It might also be in a group where the kid is assigned a certain duty. This helps them develop a sense of responsibility.

6. Personal Identity
Art can help build your kid’s confidence. For example, if you congratulate your kid for a certain achievement. This will boost the kid’s confidence. However, art will also help them to accept who they are. At times they may face criticism from peers from this they build their self-esteem. it also teaches the children patience. This can be learned from the simplest acts like waiting for paint to dry.

7. Emotional Well Being Of The Kids
Art can contribute to the emotional stability of the kids. It will make the kids feel at peace.
 It gives a sense of purpose to the kids they feel enthusiastic about their lives.
 Kids can bond with their peers and families to create friendships by participating in arts. This will contribute to the kid’s emotional stability.

You can involve your kids in different types of art from painting, modeling, drawing plays, and many others. As we have seen art has a big impact on the school kids as they grow up. Anyone should get their kids involved in art to avoid missing out on these benefits.

]]>
https://artandeverythingafter.com/the-benefits-of-creating-art-for-school-aged-children/feed/ 0
George Floyd’s Legacy Has Reached a New Level https://artandeverythingafter.com/george-floyds-legacy-has-reached-a-new-level/ https://artandeverythingafter.com/george-floyds-legacy-has-reached-a-new-level/#respond Tue, 18 Aug 2020 01:29:07 +0000 https://artandeverythingafter.com/?p=31 Read more

]]>
Artistry, I suspect, will forever remain the closest mankind can come to producing a genuine window to the soul. It’s almost as if artistic expression exists as a thin, partially distinct layer which envelops every aspect of our lives. Wherever we stand, and whatever we do, art is there to bolster our worldview. Think about it – it’s a part of everything.

When a nation is freshly born, it needs one thing as much as any other to retain its coherency: a flag with a brilliant design.

When companies begin to realize their designs of global conquest, their most recognizable aesthetic, their logo, is honored and protected at all cost.

When revolution spreads in the street, block by block, and by heart and mind, what spreads inevitably in its wake is street art. Graffiti. Imagine what this portends for the legacy of George Floyd?

It’s Not All About Him

Perhaps it’s a paradox, but it rings true. Even as Floyd’s face is sprayed across swaths of dim, bare concrete in alleyways and enormous walls of stolid red brick in quiet, empty parking lots, it’s a fact that I know to be true. George was merely the straw that broke the camel’s back. The knee pressing life out of a redundantly restrained man accused of a petty white-collar impropriety for eight minutes consecutively? It was a flash-point.

Millions of people in Minneapolis, in America, and in homes where love still flares bright enough to abate the shadows of hate, of brazen injustice, and of apathetic corruption. That’s who is protesting every day they can, months after the murder took place. And why wouldn’t this sentiment spread like wildfire across the continents? How long can we reasonably expect to exist before another identical abuse of power occurs? It seems like new footage is popping up twenty four hours a day. Crystal-clear video of members of law enforcement communities imposing themselves past their recognized capacity to do so.

I’ll be blunt. As long as those who perform their jobs correctly, and make no mistake, many of them are heroes, but as long as those who do actually serve their communities in honor of their oaths do not work harder to reign in those who spiral out of control more and more as time passes, they will not have much of my respect or sympathy either. Putting your life on the line for the public does not even come close to invalidating the concerns raised throughout the year 2020.

Why must the culture of qualified immunity persist so tangibly? For when police officers are indeed found to have violated the rights of citizens, it is the same violated public which must pony up the funds to vindicate the victims. Think about – how much does a proven victim have to contribute in taxes to secure their own justice, from a figure for whose salary he or she already pays? Should the officer who has transgressed not be held more accountable? I won’t weep for a criminal who finds himself roughed up in the course of a violent encounter with the police. But violence delivered by the authorities is NOT unlimited in its scope.

Perhaps, as we tend to do as a nation, we have focused so inwardly on our own struggles that the abuses doled out by blank-faced authoritative degenerates worldwide have largely escaped our grasp. But the world at large has always paid some degree of attention to us, whether they’d prefer it or otherwise. It seems now that we’ve set their consciences ablaze, and they’re letting us know about it.

It can be assumed that spray painting George Floyd’s image on streets in multiple countries is a sign of solidarity with his surviving loved ones. A community of murals has sprung up as the struggle of the deceased continues to reverberate. But it’s more than that. It’s also a sign that people everywhere won’t take it anymore.

It’s no secret that the public’s impression of the police has take a dip in the past few months. It’s difficult for most to admit their failings, but that sympathy has a limit. Law enforcement professionals need to understand. Jumping on a cross and victimizing yourself will not defuse burgeoning anti-cop sentiment. The fact is, you’re held to a higher standard than any common citizen. You are called on to exceed the law as necessary to protect the innocent. You are also called on to not exceed the law when unnecessary. This is a monumental task to ask of a human being, but you are not entitled to the attempt. You serve the public, and they are dedicating their time, their effort, and their artistic integrity to grab your attention and demand change. Pay attention and listen up.

The people are more entitled to that change than you are to your chosen career. I am not advocating for significant de-funding of the police. They are a lynchpin of civilization, and cannot conceptually be replaced. But their protocols can and, God willing, will change.

They’ll keep most of their opinions to themselves in public, but this growing assembly of street art dedicated to George Floyd is definitely infuriating and sickening to a considerable number of people. If you want it to stop, give the people being crushed everyday without due cause a reason to stop.

]]>
https://artandeverythingafter.com/george-floyds-legacy-has-reached-a-new-level/feed/ 0
What Makes African American Art Unique? https://artandeverythingafter.com/what-makes-african-american-art-unique/ https://artandeverythingafter.com/what-makes-african-american-art-unique/#respond Tue, 11 Aug 2020 04:16:43 +0000 https://artandeverythingafter.com/?p=12 Read more

]]>
An Artists Perspective On Ethnic Art

Black people in America have been creating art for hundreds of years in an effort to restore a culture that was ripped from them, often violently. Slave owners did everything in their power to dehumanize those who were forced into servitude. They tried to stamp out native languages and any cultural links. This is why modern African American art bears little resemblance to more traditional forms of African art. This is a style of art that has emerged to celebrate the fact of being black in the United States.

Just as African American culture evolved to encompass many parts of daily life, including the cuisine, the music, and speech patterns, in its most potent form, African American art can be a shock to the senses and quite unlike anything else.

Earliest Forms of African American Art

Due to the bondage they were forced to be in, many of the earliest African American artists were untrained in the classical sense. Many artists were craftsmen who made objects which served a functional purpose but were also highly decorative. These include wood and metal goods as well as some textiles. Many painters did landscapes or portraits, developing a new style that had almost nothing to do with popular techniques of the time.

How African American Art Impacted the Post Civil War United States

A lot of African American artists from the middle half of the 19th century to the advent of the 20th century were still craftsmen. Many of them tried to scrape together money by performing any task that held value, including basket weaving, quilting and working as a carpenter. Some scholars believe these served a larger service than simply self expression. It is believed that some quilt squares were designed to be coded escape plans to let others know about the Underground Railroad.

How the Racial Inequality of the Civil Rights Era Shaped African American Art

Throughout the Civil Rights movement, African American art was enjoying a surge in popularity, alerting Northern allies of the poverty and harsh condition faced by those living in the southern United States. Colors became harsher, shapes more vivid as emerging artists were pouring their whole souls into a single piece. This was the most evocative period for a struggle between classes in our society. Art from this time period is also highly indicative of a yearning to get closer to more traditional art forms.

How African American Art is Influenced by Racial Prejudices and Inequality

African American art has always reflected the tribulations under which African American people have existed and continue to exist. Everything, from the type of art to its physical appearance is influenced by such things as institutional racism and cultural prejudice. Many paintings by white American artists of African Americans show them as not even being human. As a reply, the African Americans who are shown in African American art almost seem as if they are celebrating what it is to be black in the United States. Racial prejudice in this country has been, for too long, telling African American that they are less than human. A new tradition of African art has sprung up, almost as if to refute that.

Modern Examples of the Uniqueness of African American Art

This style of art has come a long way since its textile and utilitarian instrument origins. The signature of a piece of African American art s that it is not classically trained. Many of the colors and shapes are not subtle. They are in your face. Popular styles of artwork are painting, photography and sculpture. Many of the most successful African American artists blend the various styles that they have been exposed to into something that is wholly their own.

African American art has evolved as a style to be as large and encompassing of different techniques as any traditional European style. From quilt squares carrying coded messages about an escape to a photo of a sharecropper, all African American art is different from any other in that it evokes a struggle, and a longing to be free.

]]>
https://artandeverythingafter.com/what-makes-african-american-art-unique/feed/ 0