“The major function of art is to show society for what it really is, even if it is unflattering.” — Brad Blackman
For centuries, art has been a significant and you can argue even crucial part of every society.
Whether the artists’ purpose is to entertain, make a creative expression or promote something, the art that they make can leave an impact the spirit of society.
This is because art is the mirror of society. It is a mirror that reflects the unedited and unfiltered truth of that society and of the people comprising it.
Over the years, art has evolved and has taken many forms. We observe it in movies, hear it in songs, read it in inspiring stories and poems, see it in illustrations and paintings.
In the 1950’s, abstract expressionism became popular because of the people’s eagerness to break away from tradition.
In the 60’s, pop art took the world as a storm. It has splashed societies as the wave of radicalism swept the decade.
The 70’s was characterized by contemporary art movements while there was a surge of conservatism during the 80’s.
In the 21st century where we’re currently in, humanity is being faced with challenges that go along with the advancement in technology.
Hence, our contemporary artists’ theme revolve around these challenges to encourage us for a deeper reflection.
The drastic increase in outer connectedness that came out with the internet demands from us to drastically increase our inner connectedness with our selves.
We have come to a time where we are more connected with each other than ever before in all human history, but we feel more alone and disconnected from ourselves than ever.
This spiritual confusion has urged artists to create art for the purpose of transforming humanity, reminding us who we are and creating a positive change.
Even if it takes them to be brutally honest, they have to do it for us to realize what has become of us. In fact, art needs to be the beacon that’s always brutally honest.
Al Margen is one of those honest illustrators that we mentioned. Her work make us pause and ask ourselves whether we find ourselves in some of her illustrations.
As our world is undergoing a consciousness shift right now, we can contribute to this shift by starting the change in ourselves.
The following illustrations might be amusing, but acting on them is the best way to put them into good use.
If we will put them into heart, if get their core message and act on it, we will have the power to transform our own corner of the world.
We can inspire others to do the same and create ripples that will ultimately make this world a much better place.
