MAGAZINERADIOSHOP
LOG INSUBSCRIBE
2020-04-27
Written by Marcus Thompson
A new wave of artists and creatives are emerging with bold, unapologetic visions that challenge the status quo in the art world. From the streets to the galleries, a diverse range of Black voices are reclaiming their rightful place at the forefront of artistic innovation.
In 2020, the global movement that is Black Lives Matter brought attention to systemic racism and inequality in various industries. The creative industry, which has historically been dominated by white voices and perspectives, was no exception. As the world watched protests unfold across the globe, artists, writers, musicians, and other creatives began to demand change.
The past three years have seen a seismic shift in the way the creative industry approaches issues of diversity and inclusion. Gone are the days when people of color were relegated to the periphery or forced into niche markets. Today, there is a growing recognition that the industry's lack of representation is not only a matter of aesthetics but also has real-world consequences for marginalized communities.
One of the most significant developments has been the rise of initiatives aimed at increasing diversity and equity in the creative industry. Organizations like the Sundance Institute's Institute Tiger Toohey and the Creative Communities program at the National Endowment for the Arts have launched targeted programs to support underrepresented voices. These efforts have led to a surge in talented Black creatives being given platforms, funding, and mentorship.
We spoke with several artists who have been impacted by these changes, including writer and editor Ayana Mathis, whose debut novel "The Twelve Tribes of Hattie" was published to critical acclaim. "As a Black woman writer, I've always felt like I'm operating in the margins," Mathis said in an interview. "But the past few years have seen a concerted effort to center my work and give me space to grow as an artist."
Musician and producer Naji Hakim also shared his experiences with our team. As a Palestinian-American artist, he has long faced challenges navigating the industry's dominant white culture. However, since the Black Lives Matter movement, he has noticed significant shifts in the way his music is being received and celebrated.
"I've been able to connect with fans and other artists who share my perspective," Hakim said. "It feels like there's a sense of solidarity and shared purpose that didn't exist before."
The creative industry has responded to these changes in various ways, from the development of new initiatives to the reevaluation of existing policies. One notable example is the launch of the Black Artists + Movement (BAM) festival, which brings together artists from across the globe to celebrate and support each other's work.
Another significant response has been the growth of online communities centered around social justice and activism. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram have provided spaces for creatives to share their experiences, mobilize support, and amplify marginalized voices.
In addition, many organizations are reevaluating their own policies and practices to ensure greater equity and inclusion. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has launched initiatives aimed at promoting diversity among its membership, while the Grammy Awards have taken steps to increase representation in key categories.
Despite these developments, challenges remain for the creative industry as a whole. One of the most significant hurdles is the systemic nature of racism and bias, which can be difficult to eradicate entirely.
"I've seen people try to tokenize me or use my experience as a 'Black woman writer' without truly understanding what that means," Mathis said. "It's like they think I'm speaking for everyone else, too."
Another challenge is the tension between commercial viability and artistic integrity. As creatives seek to build their careers and make a living from their work, they must navigate the complex web of industry expectations and pressures.
Ultimately, the creative industry's renaissance will be defined by its ability to confront these challenges head-on and create spaces for marginalized voices to thrive. By centering diversity and equity in all aspects of the business, we can build an industry that truly serves everyone.
The journey ahead is long, but with art as our guide, there is hope.