Art of Protest: What a Revolution Looks Like

Description

"Start making. Start being the change you want to see in this world." De Nichols From the psychedelic typography used in 'Make Love Not War' posters of the 60s, to the solitary raised fist, take a long, hard look at some of the most memorable and striking protest artwork from across the world and throughout history. With an emphasis on design, analyse each artwork to understand how colour, symbolism, technique, typography and much more play an important role in communication, and learn about some of the most influential historical movements. Tips and activities are also included to get you started on making some of your own protest art. Guided by activist, lecturer and speaker De Nichol's powerful own narrative and stunningly illustrated by a collaboration of young artists from around the world, including Diana Dagadita, Olivia Twist, Molly Mendoza, Raul Oprea and Diego Becas, Art of Protest is as inspiring as it is empowering.

De Nichols is currently a Loeb Fellow in residence at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. As an artsbased organizer, social impact designer, serial entrepreneur and keynote lecturer, she's mobilized change-makers nationwide to develop creative approaches to the social, civic, and racial justice issues that matter most within communities. One of her most celebrated works, The Mirror Casket, was cited in an article by Angela Davis entitled The Art of Protest.

"This book will encourage and equip [readers] to use art as a language and instrument that can help...champion [their] chosen cause." Beginning on a personal note, Nichols breaks down her involvement in the Black Lives Matter movement in Missouri, starting in 2014, and uses this jumping-off point to widen the scope to thoughtfully balance personal accounts of protest with a wider global perspective. In straightforward, accessible language she takes readers through the history of visual media for social change through the past and into the modern day, ending with speculation on where current trends will take protest art in the future. Appropriately packing the text with graphics from several artists displaying unique visual styles, author and artist Nichols prepares the next generation of young art activists with a comprehensive guide to the inextricable relationship between protest and art. Inspiring, pop-color illustrations highlight five youth climate activists around the world. Featuring examples of work and quotes from the likes of Ai Weiwei, Nina Simone, Diego Rivera, and Keith Haring, Nichols arms young readers with basic introductions in reading visual information-including color associations, common symbology, typography, and popular formats such as zine making, screen printing, and-escaping the two-dimensional-various protest demonstrations. Abundant contextual information pairs beautifully with encouragement to engage-safely-with protest in a variety of ways suited to civic-minded young artists. Nichols is sure to inspire an entire generation of new "artivists." (Nonfiction. 10-18) - Kirkus Starred Review