Editor’s Column: Art is for Everyone

It’s 2020, and the world is on hold, but artists are still creating extremely relevant work.

It is art that covers the statues after long weeks of protesting, that is painted on the streets to say Black Lives Matter. And, as we navigate this global reset with the impacts of COVID, nationwide protests, and rampant racism, we make art about it. We use this time to express what we can’t convey because we’re stuck inside, or because we are frustrated and scared.

In this issue, you’ll find all kinds of art, from pieces that tell the story of the Two-Spirit community to works that deal with sexual assault and chronic illness. You’ll also find tips to beautify your coffee table and re-organize your house, including specific tips from style genius and Queer Eye star Bobby Burke.

Why not focus just on the hard-hitting, protest art that also finds its way into these pages, or specifically on visual art that we deem to have a specific, social message? Because art is also about self-care, something we should all be focusing on right now. Not everyone is a writer, musician, visual artist, or movie maker, but we can all appreciate the aesthetic of a good outfit or perfectly arranged bedroom. It’s all valid, and we’ve tried to make space for every kind of visual self-expression in this issue.

So, hopefully with any pretense about what art is or isn’t aside, dive on into our art issue, discover some amazing pieces and creators, learn about social justice, rearrange your room, and learn more about yourself along the way. The issue can be found at the link provided, told through individual stories posted on our site, or in person at our distribution sites around the city. We hope you like this one, and happy reading!

-Addison Herron-Wheeler

Art by Kayte DeMonte