An article by guest contributor Patricia Audrey Hakim (428 words, 2 min. read)
Art mesmerizes me. I admire creators from all fields because they reflect the beliefs, norms, and culture of an era through unique perspectives. It sparks inspiration, invites innovation, and offers hope and vision. Through artistic culture, civilizations thrive. A people remembered in history will be a people with artistic and intellectual contributions to the world and humankind.
For art, creativity, and innovation to prosper, freedom is essential. Art is an expression of the how, why, and where we go from here. A society that provides a safe space for self-expression whether through visual arts, the written word, or public speaking brings enthusiastic visions to life. A thriving culture continuously offers something new to excite our minds and touch our hearts. Artistic expression triggers emotions of happiness, sadness, anger, anxiety, to self-reflect and to connect us to one another. It inspires and provokes us to think deeply about ourselves and the issues of the day.
Alternatively, when people fear reprisals, constraints, or violence for introducing new ideas or challenging the status quo, a society is left numb and demoralized. If chains dampen our spirit, where do we go from here? Life will be void of vibrancy and purpose. Motivation for fresh and pioneering ideas will be limited to representing the system that constrains them.
We remember those civilizations throughout history that have encouraged artistic and intellectual freedom. Ancient Egypt, Ancient India, the Renaissance, the Islamic Golden Age, the United States of today, are all examples that valued the spirit of innovation and saw incredible advancements in science, humanities, and the arts thanks to a culture that embraced creativity. Granted with a little tug and pull here and there. In general, the culture was one of freedom, sometimes a duty, to contribute whichever way possible.
Imagine a world where artistic expression is restricted. Where our liberty to wander and wonder, and simply to observe creativity are controlled.
What a boring and mechanical life it would be!
I want to always be awed and inspired even provoked by exciting pieces of art or not-so exciting pieces. I want the freedom to feel and choose as I want artists to have the freedom and choices to express themselves as they wish.
A flourishing society is one that is dynamic and visionary. It continuously evolves in an open space.
A civilization only advances through culture. Artistic individuality and freedom stimulate our senses and beautify life, today and for the tomorrows coming. And for me to progress, so must my civilization.
