I have to be honest, I usually steer clear of political posts because of their polarizing nature, however, in the past couple of weeks there has been an attack on artistic integrity and it’s not only jeopardizing our freedom of expression but it’s beginning to cause hysteria. While fear is a primal emotion that art can certainly evoke, it has no place in the creation of art and should’nt be used to oppress people who seek out artistic inspiration.
The days leading up to Christmas this year, were rife with reports covering the cancelation of “The Interview” as a message from hackers warned “Remember 9/11′”to instill fear into the hearts of Americans and inevitably forced the major theater chains to pull the movie for fear of losing at the box office on one of the biggest movie holiday of the year. A silly stoner comedy with subtle political overtones, had just been canceled and the threat became real, and the outrage was soon to follow. Hollywood’s response was swift and clear, “we cannot allow North Korea to dictate our art!” IHEARTCOMIX stepped up to the plate, refusing to allow these fear mongers to win by screening The Interview on Christmas day at the Egyptian Theater. Who were they to tell us we couldn’t smoke pot and giggle alongside Seth Rogan, and a room filled with patriots?!
Fast forward to this past Wednesday January 7th, as a historic tragedy unfolded in Paris at the offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, as two armed gunman killed 12 people, including the magazine’s chief editor. The suspects fled to Dammartin-en-Goële, northeast of Paris where they have now been tracked down and killed in a police seige accordington L.A. Times. While many may think, ‘now that the perpetrators have been elimnated, justice has been done.’ This could not be farther from the truth. While the victims of this heinous crime are cartoonist, writers, officer, and family’s of the fallen innovators, the attack was one intended to stifle creative freedom and will continue to be waged in the months and years to come. There has already been an outpouring of response and once again it seems our greatest weapon against this artistic terrorism is in the power of the pen. Je Suis Charlie!
Lately the music industry has become increasingly scrutinizing succombing to the same click bait journalism of celebrity sensationalism that TMZ and other tabloids perpetuate. This constant criticism has contributed to overly sensitive fans looking to take aim at anything they see as offensive, #trolling. Earlier this week, SIA released a new powerful and poignant music video for her song Elastic Heart featuring actor Shia LaBeouf and brilliant interpretive dancer Maddie Ziegler. Those with an artistic eye could easily empathize with the strong emotional battle being portrayed, however a large majority were quick criticize citing the sexual nature of the video and the pedophilic undertones. SIA addressed this wave of hysteria, with clearification and an apology, “I apologize to those who feel triggered by Elastic Heart. My intention was to create some emotional content, not to upset anybody.” As the artists I imagine these implications are somewhat angering, but mostly dissappointing by having to defend their work. Freedom of expression is something we’ve worked so hard for and now it in serious danger of being compromised.
Fear can be infectious so we must stay vigilant and continue to create without inhibition. Yearn to experience the depths of art, and the invigorating, inspirational message it provides. Life can be stressful and full of struggle but the beauty that can emerge out of this suffering can also enlighten and impart change but it’s up to us to protect it.
