There are no limits to the ways in which artists can be agents for social change and that it is no coincidence that many artists are also famous political figures.
Happy new year and welcome back to campus. February is a time in the United States and Canada when we pay tribute to the contributions of the descendants of the African Diaspora: Black History Month (there are similarly named observances in both Ireland and in Western Europe during the calendar month of October)-none has been cancelled. The month was preceded by a very dynamic January, with several important dates following the observance of the new year on Jan. 1. The first day of Mardi Gras, the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., National Day of Racial Healing, and National Holocaust Day of Remembrance on Jan. 6, Jan. 20, Jan. 21, and Jan. 27, respectively. The lunar new year welcomed the Year of the Snake on Jan. 29 and the United States swore in a new president on Jan. 20. Spanning two months, communities from Mobile, Alabama to New Orleans will celebrate culture and cheer during Mardi Gras, right through St. Valentine’s and President’s Days on Feb. 17, respectively.
With so many climate events and legislative and political announcements/determinations happening, it does not seem far-fetched that each of us in our own way may feel like we are holding tight just to stay on course—any course. In a post written for Arts, Artists, Artwork (AAA), entitled Artist as Agents of Social Change Past and Present-author Lee Down reminds us that there are no limits to the ways in which artists can be agents for social change and that it is no coincidence that many artists are also famous political figures. This is not to suggest that artists are all in agreement or political. The CalArts mission and values are clear and call for social and cultural engagement as a part of artists growth and development.
The artists above represent different eras and mediums of expression. All create art that is political and reminds us that an informed and educated collective is a resilient one—that recognizes historical fact as an opportunity to make sense of the present and plan for the future. Like the artists highlighted this month, CalArtians exist without permission and continue to thrive because of an unwavering commitment to creating space for interrogation and inquiry as a source of light. The campus is much more than buildings and grounds, as demonstrated every time students, faculty and staff make work outside of the protection of the walls of the campus. Certainly, we can only get better and stronger as a community when we recognize our imperfections and honor past and present as necessary beginnings and not ends.
If you, like so many of us, are still finding your way after the most recent fires in Southern California, please know that you are not alone and the community is here with and for you. If you are struggling and just not sure why please take advantage of the resources on campus.
For students: If you have concerns about a student who may be struggling, please contact the CARE Team to report your concern or request a consultation. Counseling services are available through CalArts Health and Wellness. Students also can access crisis counseling 24/7 at 855-364-7981.
For staff and faculty: Please visit benefits.calarts.edu for resources and support.
Other mental health resources may be found on the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health website.