One of the greatest ways that people can spread feelings, experiences, & vital information is through the power of art. From graphic illustrations to hand crafted pieces–artists are using their creativity to spread awareness and motivate people to get more involved and informed. With visuals and sensory elements that people can connect to and feel warmly understood–art creates a therapeutic and healing atmosphere for its audiences.
This has been such a valuable medium in the last decade. From watching genocides and human rights violations across the globe on our cell phones, to having racist, ableist, and transphobic laws being passed to further oppress marginalized people. It can be overwhelming witnessing the human atrocities all around us. There’s so many tragedies taking place in the world that wreak havoc and distress throughout our communities, making it more and more difficult to come up for air.
But through innovation and introspection, artists are making new spaces for people to breathe. Not only to display what we are simultaneously feeling, but to give us hope and motivation for the future.
The last year has been tough for many of us, so I wanted to share the creators that I personally looked forward to seeing pop up on my feed.
Here are some brilliant artists who have been using their talents to make a significant impact:
Now more than ever do we need illustrations that have the power to comfort. There’s a lot to take in everyday in our human lives, but there’s something truly compelling about artwork that instantly makes you feel a sense of community just by seeing it. That is the work of–Devon Blow, AKA Dev the Pineapple. Based in Los Angeles, this illustrator, designer, and writer uses bold character creations and color designs along with affirmations and quotes from legendary writers and activists–from Audre Lorde to James Baldwin. Her work inspires expressive thought along with action, portraying the necessity of social justice, as well as the value of human connection.
Visit her website to pre-order her new Zine: Radical Reminders: Affirmations for Changemakers, as well as other prints, zines, & goodies.
Using eye-catching visuals, vivid colors, and encouraging words of allyship, Caitlin Blunnie AKA Liberal Jane Illustration combines vibrancy with activism. This queer feminist uses the power of illustration, along with her near decade long reproductive justice experience to bring light to the fight for equality. Covering themes of body autonomy and gender expression, to disabled communities and anti-racism–this artist does not shy away from empowerment for marginalized communities. Her work proves that our lives are not debatable, and our struggles are intertwined with one another.
Get some awesome stickers, downloads, & accessories from her official shop.
How can we capture the spirit of anguish from those around the globe in a single image? While it may seem impossible to understand feelings of this magnitude, Peoni Fernando dedicates her artistry to uplift these voices. This UK based artist uses warm colors, delicate portraits, and vital information updates to tell the stories of oppressed communities around the globe that are silenced. She often recreates images from documented photographs to recapture moments, in that the rest of the world may not forget. These images are heartbreaking–but undeniably necessary. Peoni’s work proves that imagery is one of the most compelling tools that breathes resilience and resistance in our communities.
Look at her incredible Portfolio on her website here.
During times where institutions continue to suppress our cultural heritage and voices, artists continue to create collections that are unwavering. From the Bay area, Xicana makes illustrations that represent Latinx and Indigenous communities, allowing audience members to reconnect to their ancestral roots. She uses bright colors, ethereal backgrounds, and portrait styles to celebrate the liveliness of the diaspora.
One of her works I first fell in love with was a beautiful dedication to the Latino immigrants who lost their lives in the Baltimore Bridge collapse in March of this year (Descansen En Paz). Her artistry is a reminder for all to appreciate our lives and value us as people, as well as a celebration of our stories through generations.
Visit Xicana’s Redbubble store here.
Based in Los Angeles, artist & floral designer Maurice Harris connects the beauty of flowers and nature with the wonder of the human experience. With a major theme, “Capitalism Doesn’t Care About Your Creativity,” this artist opens the conversation of how we struggle to remain creative in a world of consumership. His humor and affirmations bring not only an understanding of our current anxieties, but a gentle nudge to be kind to ourselves. He has also incorporated portrait photographs in his artwork, creating images that highlight the divinity of Black bodies. His volume series, Shades of Blackness unearths how we in the Black community see ourselves despite negative outside depictions. Maurice is able to establish a delicate and loving space that is not often allotted for us.
These are just a few of the many creators & illustrators out here who are using their artistry to connect with audience members on a profound level. Despite what problems we are facing in our communities, artists continuously prove that there is power when we remain linked with those around us.
Take a moment to like, share, & follow these artists on your socials. And feel free to add any artists that have comforted and inspired you in this past year.
And as always, thank you for being here.