The Power of Art

    In the wake of the terrorist attacks on Charlie Hebdo in France this month, I think it is important for all of us to remember the powerful impact that art has on those around us. Everyone can recall a time when a film, drawing, book or play affected us. Perhaps it evoked a raw sense of emotion and animal instinct.

JMW Turner's "Fishermen at Sea" 1796

Or maybe it stirred a nostalgic feeling for something we did not know we missed.

Artwork by Lois Van Baarle aka "Loish". http://loish.net/

Or maybe it reminded us of an old friend and made us laugh.

"Copper" by Kazu Kibuishi. http://www.boltcity.com/copper/

Regardless of the effect, each of us, especially artists, has a responsibility to watch out for our fellow man, and perhaps even to try and help others with our work. The tragedy at Charlie Hebdo reminds us that free speech is an important aspect for society, but even more importantly, it reminds us of how fragile humans can be. If each of us remembered every day that every person we meet is loved by someone, and loves someone in return, perhaps it would make the differences between us seem far less insurmountable.

(Sketch by me)