Social/Political Assignment-Part 1

Social and Political Issues in Art: inspired by Sara Gant, NC

Per our discussion and slide show of the images below during class, I would like to remind you that no matter what position you take on an issue, there will always be a counter balance. 

Assignment:
Social/Political block reduction print (the process and examples will be in the next post) I just want you to think about your topic for now.


Objective:
You will choose an issue/cause you care deeply about. This issue should be something that is a concern in your society or elsewhere in the world. Here is a partial list of some of the issues you might want to consider: environment, racism, gender issues, child labor, domestic violence, discrimination, religious views, war, social-economic class, poverty, bullying, mental health, animal rights, gay rights…What issues do you CARE about? Have you been affected by an issue or know a family member or a friend who has? How did it affect them?

Project Description:
Your image may be subtle or in your face. Think about what point of view you want to depict (An animal being experimented on, for example, if you are for animal rights.) You project will be image based with possible minimal text. Think about your color scheme (six color limit).

Starting:
Spend time researching the issue you have chosen to speak about. Use paper to jot down images, quotes, or words that relate to you idea. You can borrow ideas from other images to help you develop your initial ideas, BUT YOUR WORK SHOULD BE YOUR OWN. Your sketches should be a visual record of the research and documentation that you have done.

Post Project Writing Assignment:
Write about your image. Answer a number of following questions in 2-3 paragraphs.
What is the reasoning for choosing your topic?
Why do you feel the way you do?
What are your arguments for or against your topic?
What or who has influenced your decisions and opinions about your topic?
What is the opposition to your issue?
How would/do you interact with someone who has an opposing view?
Can you see the opposition's point of view?
Is your artwork intended to offend?
Who would be offended?
Does an artist have a right to offend?
Critique your project: 
Are you effective in getting your point across? How?
Is there a focal point (center of interest)?
How do you effectively use the Principles of Design?

Additional Resources: The Graphic Imperative  Posters Propaganda Posters Justseeds.org

You Can Click on Image to enlarge.