What Is an Art Thug?

An ART THUG is someone who isn’t afraid to take a stand, be heard and fight oppression. An ART THUG employs ART as their weapon of choice. ART THUG’s are visual artists, filmmakers, architects, photographers, models, sculptors, poets, designers, writers, dancers, musicians, actors, playwrights, screenwriters, art critics, and journalists. Anyone who utilizes creative expression to challenge, inform and educate the public about political corruption, injustice, ageism, systemic discrimination, police brutality, sexism, and classism. The ‘powers that be’ have been successful at keeping us separated and destabilizing and marginalizing our communities. An ART THUG is a creative thinker and creator providing society with a thoughtful critique of the current socio-political climate. To inspire, engage and compel ‘we the people’ to stand for something and not just against in hopes of taking the necessary steps toward social progress.  Ideas, Words, and Actions articulated to shape our everyday lives communicating a sense of a purpose for the greater good. Through art, we document history, manifest societal values, and discuss political and social affairs and incidents.

I AM Art Thug