In a truly civilized society
The willingness to contribute through taxes and support the disabled and underprivileged becomes a gauge of societal progress. This encompasses individuals facing economic and mental health challenges often overlooked.
The Rave Beneath the Motorway: A Catalyst for Societal Change.
A striking work of art embodies the missing elements in today’s society. It is set on the edge of a city where established venues may struggle to accommodate the underprivileged, prioritizing profit over inclusion and perpetuating societal divisions. This art aims to inspire change and rekindle the spirit of unity and inclusivity that characterized those ’90s raves.
The Impact of Industrialization on Society.
The industrialization of the 1780s brought about a seismic shift in how societies operated. As cities beckoned the impoverished, including my ancestry in Wales and Ireland, people hoped for a better life, seeking refuge from the toil of agriculture. This era witnessed a stark contrast between the prosperous and the marginalized, as people left behind the rural way of life in search of opportunities in burgeoning urban centres.
The Need for Cooperation in a Competitive World
Competition is often considered natural in a world driven by capitalism, even if it sometimes leads to a cold and inhumane approach. While Darwin’s theory has prominence in understanding human society, alternative perspectives, like Cooperation Theory, underscore the importance of cooperation and social bonds in human evolution and society.
The Plight of the Marginalized and the Call for Compassion
This fixation on success and competition often leaves the less fortunate behind—impoverished individuals with mental health challenges, the unsupported and needy, and those with disabilities facing economic hardship. The marginalized, a diverse and intricate group, share one commonality: poverty. Not everyone has a kind and supportive family to rely on. Labelling those unable to work as burdens is unjust. The privileged few thrive while others languish.
Lessons from the Great Depression
The 1930s brought the Great Depression, a severe economic downturn that left countless people struggling. It serves as a stark reminder of how economic challenges can devastate the lives of many, underscoring the need for a compassionate society.
Challenging Conventional Norms: The Unconventional Pursuit of Happiness.
With the onset of industrialization and economic challenges, society transformed. Those depicted in The Rave Beneath the Motorway, a powerful painting, exist outside conventional norms. They are descendants of migrants who abandoned farms for urban prospects. In this gathering, they strive to find happiness in a relentless world.
Art as a Mirror to Society’s Ongoing Struggles.
Throughout history, artists have used their work to address social issues. The social realism movement of the 1930s depicted the struggles of the working class. In contrast, the civil rights movements in the mid-20th century fought for the rights of marginalized communities, including those facing racial and economic discrimination.
Continuing the Quest for a More Compassionate Society.
Today, society grapples with the same issues. Humanity evolves, and the consequences of the Industrial Revolution and the toll of urban living on people and the environment are now evident. The successful question their paths—though employed, they ponder whether fulfilment aligns with their routines. These sentiments have been woven into my artwork.
Suggested Readings:
- The Impact of Industrialization on Society:
Lessons from the Great Depression:
- Challenging Conventional Norms: The Unconventional Pursuit of Happiness:
Continuing the Quest for a More Compassionate Society:
“Improve overall feel and grammer” prompt. ChatGPT, September 25 Version, OpenAI, 20 Oct. 2023. https://chat.openai.com.
