The Social Artist

The capacity for creativity, in thought and action, is universal among human beings. Depending on many factors such as autonomy, political climate, economic status, and sustainable resources, this capacity may be honored and cultivated, or silenced and repressed. For those whose creative potential is yet to be realized, it is the responsibility of the Social Artist, as envisioned by Jean Houston, to embody the skill, tireless dedication, and unique vision of the artist in the social arena. Through mindful presence, the Social Artist seeks to provide a dynamic balance between inner understanding and outward expression within their community and as a global citizen. The realization of humanity’s potential is possible through the liberation of the “common” people by being present to the basic needs of society, and creating a greater sense of self-governance through the decentralization of resources and knowledge.

         In Art and Artist, Otto Rank asserts that “greatness consists precisely in this reaching out beyond themselves, beyond the ideology which they have themselves fostered.” Change does not need to be invasive or abrupt because transformation of consciousness can be as soft and simple as asking the right question. As Rank points out, if a person’s perspective can be broadened beyond the automatic acceptance of what they know to be true, a revolution of evolution toward the deliberate life participant, rather than the living autopilot, is set into motion. Rank believed that questions had the capacity to allow community members to step outside the prevailing paradigm and ideology, causing reflection on one’s beliefs and assumptions, leading to a shift in consciousness that reframes the knowledge they have acquired. Stepping outside the comfort zone of knowing is likened to the process of the artist in their struggle to shift their perceptions, to transform their view, to see the world in ways that neither they, nor others, have seen before. So too for the Social Artist as they revere the rich heritage of cultural norms while also striving to perceive the emergence of ontological innovation.

         Unleashing the unbridled capabilities for metamorphosis not only benefits those who participate in the endeavor, but also those whom one is in service to, and those who come into contact with the fruit of that labor. Removing obstacles that inhibit the integrity of inward experience being analogous to its outward expression can be as simple as asking “What do you need?” The Social Artist not only wishes to be of service to other’s needs, but seeks to develop a sustainable human development. This does not mean providing for others without question; it means that we provide others with tool and resources that will continue to aid them in our absence and create a strong sense of autonomy. For example, the Buddha has been dead for many years, but his teachings and principles to alleviate suffering still continue on as viable tools for transformation of one’s plight regardless of one’s religious affiliation or ethnic origin.

         Having worked with children to facilitate creative thinking, at a national non-profit organization, has presented me with the challenge of facilitating growth while following and imposing bureaucratic rules and regulations. Though daunting at first, I have realized that even just making one suggestion to one person can create a chain reaction of change and shifts in consciousness. Choosing to use “trash” as a main staple medium in my art room caused many of the children to start seeing the treasure in their so-called waste. An egg carton may actually be a caterpillar; a milk jug and some old newspapers may actually be a ceremonial mask from Uganda. It has also opened the doors of their perception to include “I can do art; I am creative,” rather than “I’m not an artist, so I’m not creative.” Then, having been able to guide them toward perceiving how they are creative in every choice they make throughout the day shows them that creativity is not just attributed to the arts. They are always creative, and never disempowered, because they have the capacity to choose how they will perceive and process their lives. Together, we are all in the process of igniting a strong sense of passion and social responsibility that has the potential to transform lives, in a positive way.