[iDC] Art, Lifestyle & Globalisation Questions

[Cynthia Beth Rubin]

I find the use of capitalist terms to describe what we do as artists 
intriguing.  If we go this route, we have to recognize that everything 
that we do as artists and intellectuals is the result of surplus 
capital- otherwise we would be in the fields growing corn.

In North America, we not only have surplus monetary capital, we have 
surplus intellectual and educational capital.  We know things and think 
about things that are far removed from our own lives.

How do we use our surplus educational capital?  And how does this play 
out for activist artists? Do we get to indulge in making the art that 
we want to make, get it recognized in galleries and through sales, and 
then call ourselves activists because the subject matter echoes harsh 
realities that are written about elsewhere?

Or are there other ways to be activists. Like volunteering to teach 
computer skills to adults in desperate need of a new career.  Or doing 
page lay-outs for non-profits?  It may not be an either or situation, 
but can we reap the benefits of the system without getting into the 
trenches?  What really is the best way for artists to make the world a 
better place?

Cynthia B Rubin

http://CBRubin.net