In the wake of recent sexual harassment allegations, many people are wondering what role should artists take in the #MeToo era? The National Endowment for the Arts has a few ideas. In their latest blog post, they discuss how we can use art to combat sexual harassment and assault. They advise that artists create work that “speaks to power imbalances,” or work that challenges those who have abused their positions of authority.
That might mean making an installation about consent, or wearing badges at all times displaying your boundaries with other people- whichever style you choose is up to you! Artists can also contribute to the discussion by making art about sexual assault and harassment as it’s happening. They suggest writing a poem or song in response, for example! Bullet Points: The National Endowment for the Arts has some ideas on how artists can take an activist role in this #MeToo era.
One idea is that they create work that speaks to power imbalances, challenging those who abuse their positions of authority. Another suggestion is contributing to the conversation by creating artwork related to sexual oppression while it’s happening. The NEA advises artists do whatever type of activism resonates with them best–whether through spoken word pieces or installations!-because at the end of the day there are many different ways.
