Art Abides
Things are looking rather bleak. It has been a constant deluge of hate, violence, anger, illness, death, and loss, long before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine further darkened the horizon. So much has happened in such a short period. These times of uncertainty are unsettling. Not long ago, I had a conversation with a friend of mine who is a talented painter and poet.
“What’s the point?” She recently questioned. “What’s the point in wasting time doing any of this? Soon, with all this bullshit happening, there might not be a society left to paint or write for.”
My friend feels sad, angry, and frightened by everything happening in the world. Her anxiety has reached existential crisis levels. These feelings are valid in the face of so much seeming calamity. And, if you are an artists, musician, performer, or writer, experiencing similar feelings of discouragement, your feelings are also valid.
There are many reasons to stop creating. Sometimes, despite the love you have for your craft, one may be required to step away for health or life reasons. Other obligations may take up so much of your time. Maybe you are uninspired and experiencing a creative dry spell. These and many others are understandable reasons. However, a reason I will never agree with is one based primarily on the dismissive notion that ‘art isn’t needed right now’. Be it for your personal sake, a healthy outlet…
