Yet, quite understandably, not every artist can be all in with politics. Some artists build their platforms and audiences for it, and are overall more prepared to confront issues and handle controversy, while others… not so much. And in numerous ways, they may be valid and even indispensable too.
However, there comes a point when acting as though nothing is going on and you can simply continue to do as you normally do doesn’t work. It doesn’t land well. Rightfully so, you’d be called tone-deaf and asked to read the room. And failure or refusal to do so speaks of your stance or lack thereof. Proceeding as regular would backfire, and you would be viewed as selfish, cruel, or just irritating. So you must find what degree of acknowledgement and participation suits you to be able to do what you best do as an artist.
You can think of it in levels. From the least to the most that an artist can do to stand for the right causes (and be on the right side of history). Maybe you can only do level 1 or 2, but that’s still better than zero. Aim for level 3 and higher, though. 5 and beyond put you in the hardcore ally category. 10 can be risky but legendary, stay safe!
1 - Secretly contribute to the affected and/or those tending to them. (This can come to light later.)
2 - Sneakily/subtly create and perform art that addresses problems or pain areas.
3 - Make a clear statement declaring your support and sympathies before moving on to your art.
4 - Focus exclusively on bringing forth artworks that are of significant assistance. (Illuminating, empowering, etc.)
5 - Share guides and references as needed.
6 - Rock the boat with news and more every now and then.
7 - Promote initiatives to accelerate progress.
8 - Embark on projects specifically to gather resources and other forms of aid for it.
9 - Be outspoken about your views and opinions on stage, during interviews, and more.
10 - Be personally active in protests and the like.
Keep in mind that, depending on how you have established yourself, people will be expecting more or less from you. E.g. You’ve positioned yourself as caring about this or that and then turn your back on it when it is under attack/in danger? THE HYPOCRISY. Not cool. Furthermore, your solidarity will be measured based on your ability to be solidary.
Let’s say that you sincerely wish to be a force of good but you, quite frankly, barely have a clue or are confused about how to go about it. What is appropriate and what is inappropriate? What is right and what is wrong? What is correct and what is incorrect? In such a case, the best that you can do is invest in getting properly informed and educated. And if that is going to take a while, consider announcing, in your words, that you’re looking into it and hope to soon know how to proceed, so that you won’t be mistaken as indifferent.
Perhaps you can’t shake off the fear, anxiety, worries, and whatnot. But you really don’t want to be paralyzed. Look for other artists who are already getting involved. They can show you that you are not alone or even how it could be done. The more you find that have already taken the first steps, the easier it will be for you to take yours. Nevertheless, you would benefit from eventually emboldening yourself to be less reluctant to make a difference.
Practice makes perfect and done is better than perfect. Don’t let perfectionism cripple you. Putting in the effort matters, whether it is appreciated or not. And if you make a mistake, you can go back on it, apologize for it, correct it, and compensate for it if you must. Don’t stagnate in a corner; get out there, even if you have to begin with baby steps.
