Feeding the Beast

After we create a piece of artwork, we release it into the world and don't really give it any more thought than: How can we do it better next time? Does it stack up well within the industry standard? Does it fulfill the client's needs? etc. Unless we are hiding our work in a broom closet, any creative endeavor that sees publication acquires a life of its own. Not only does it take on meaning dependent upon the interpretation of any specific audience, but the work itself, whether intended or not, takes on a role in shaping culture.

Have you thought much about how the work that you do affects other people's perceptions and values?

The recent violent events in Connecticut prompted many to pontificate on the tragedy and their solutions for it. Much of the conversation revolves around the obvious-- America's access to certain kinds of weapons-- but other nuanced conversations suggest that we must begin to address the deeper issues of mental health and a preoccupation with violence. Some, like Jackson Katz,  suggest that our cultural construction of masculinity is badly skewed and needs to be addressed. Others suggest that these problems come from a "morally lax" society, ie. suggesting that parents (read: women) are neglecting their kids when they place them in daycare centers (instead of being stay-at-home caretakers). Others still, have suggested that violent TV programs, movies, video games, music, etc. are all to blame, and the creators of such (read: artists, writers)  blamed for glamorizing violence and death.

Really? Can we suggest that art and visual media could possibly cultivate violence and sustain a person's destructive attitudes about themselves and others? Can art and media create a ridiculous sense of masculinity or femininity? Can you say fashion magazines? You still don't believe me, do you?

And this:  DC Comics' recent decision to hire openly anti-gay Orson Scott Card to write the next issues of Superman has prompted many writers and artists to take to the blogosphere in protest and avowed boycott. Some will suggest that just because the man has certain personal beliefs doesn't necessarily mean that those beliefs will translate into his work. However, others have cited that his ideology definitely bleeds into his writing elsewhere, so why wouldn't he use it as a personal platform to bash gays? So, if you were a comic book artist would you take this job if it meant depicting Superman acting as a bigoted jerk? Would you take a job that went against your own personal values because of the cash it put into your pocket?

How aware are we as artists of the effect of our work on culture/ society? Are we creating imagery that is physically violent, or sexist? And do we care about its effects? Are we perpetuating old stereotypes? Are we using our unique gift to incite hatred and divisiveness?  Some will argue that it's all about a paycheck; nobody really cares; it'll all blow over; violence in a game/ TV/ book doesn't necessarily perpetuate violence in the user. Are you sure?