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I decided to try painting something to submit to an “Art for Democracy” contest being run by my church. It’s open to professional artists throughout New England and there are cash prizes, so I’m not getting my hopes up. I’m thinking of it as an “artistic prompt” (like the daily writing prompt here on WordPress).
Here’s the actual prompt:
Art is a powerful tool for social change. Unbound by age, culture or social location, it sparks the imagination and promotes meaningful dialogue. With the goal of encouraging civic engagement, artists across New England are invited to submit works on the theme of protecting and strengthening American democracy. Artworks should express the goals of promoting unity and the common good, which underscores the American ideals that all voices are important and that our strength lies in welcoming diverse perspectives. Our goal is to spur productive dialogue; showcase the work of New England artists; and celebrate democracy.
Like many people, I was inspired by the people of Minneapolis who bravely stood up to ICE in the frigid cold to try to protect their community, even after Nicole Good and Alex Pretti were assassinated. There was one viral photo by an unidentified photographer that really struck me. A woman went outside in her bathrobe and slippers to join a crowd of others documenting ICE actions in their neighborhood:
So I decided to paint that.
So here’s the dilemma: Should I perhaps leave the two Police/ICE agents as unpainted line drawings? Do you think it might be effective like that? From my perspective, they are unwanted invaders in this community. Maybe the contrast with the good people of Minneapolis would be greater if I leave them unpainted. Ghosts in the Machine, so to speak. OR should I paint them monochromatic in shades of grey? What do you think? Which would make a better painting?
50 Happens 
Oh wow, that’s a powerful choice. Maybe you should paint the agents in black & white because their existence is like going back in time before media was in colour. Just a thought.
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Oh, good thought! They are like a throwback to a previous, less enlightened, black and white era. Thanks for the input Pooja!
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I say unpainted, whatever makes them look as ugly and unwanted as possible lol
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Thanks CJ! Yeah, that’s definitely what I’m going for. Your input is appreciated 🙏🏼
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What a great challenge. I like the idea of the agents being unpainted – makes them less than human. Powerful artwork either way, my friend.
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Thanks so much for your input and support May! 🙏🏼
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Oh, excellent! Yes, leave them unpainted. So striking that way. Best of luck!
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Thanks for weighing in Laurie! I appreciate it 🙏🏼
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I’m by no means an artist. I need to say that upfront, but I actually looked at your painting first and thought it was complete. I love the idea of the police/ICe agents and the faces unpainted. It feels more participatory. As viewers we have to decide how we’re going to respond. Will we be like the ice agents in life or will we speak up and care for our neighbor? Maybe it’s just me but the unfinished agents definitely jump out more! Looks amazing, a beautiful painting.
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Wow! Thanks for your comment Brian. I really appreciate the input! Interesting idea to leave the crowd faces unpainted too. 🤔
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