The Hidden Privilege of Making Art

Introduction: A Privilege Often Overlooked

Picture yourself at a comfortable desk with a cup of tea by your side, a blank canvas in front of you, and a set of paints at the ready to help you realize your creative vision. It sounds wonderful, doesn't it? But here's the thing: what would happen if you didn't have access to that blank canvas, those paints, or even the time to sit down and create? For many of us, the opportunity to create art seems for granted; anyone can do it if they so desire. However, creating art is actually a luxury that isn't as common as it may seem.

Not everyone has equal access to creative opportunities, despite the fact that art is frequently praised for being an outlet of self-expression, interpersonal connection, and even emotional healing. Some people are unable to purchase art supplies due to financial hardships. For others, creativity is stifled by the responsibilities of employment, family, and survival. And let's not forget that sometimes having the mental space to even think creatively in the first place is just as important as having the time or money!

So, when we talk about making art, it’s important to recognize that this opportunity isn’t available to everyone. And those of us who can paint, write, or craft without worrying about time, space, or money? We’re the lucky ones.

The Cost of Creativity

The cost of art supplies is high, so let's start there! The cost of paints, canvases, sketchbooks, brushes, clay, and other artistic supplies mounts quickly. Even if your only goal is to experiment or sketch, you're often faced with a significant financial burden before you ever make a mark. And let's not even talk about digital tools! The modern artist's arsenal includes tablets, drawing software, and graphic design applications, all of which are out of reach for the majority of people.

But it goes beyond the tangible materials. Enrolling in art classes to develop your abilities? That will cost extra. Hiring a studio for more ambitious projects? Put that on the list! It can seem luxurious to have even the most basic needs, like a quiet space set aside for creating at home. These hidden costs can completely prohibit creative expression for those who are trying to make ends meet, particularly those who are homeless or have reduced incomes. Rent and groceries have to be paid for before you can afford to buy a set of paints, isn't that right?

Sometimes we ignore the real obstacles that keep people from accessing art because we believe that it is something that everyone can do. Many people have financial hardships that make art seem like an impossible goal, which is why it's crucial to acknowledge how fortunate we are to have these tools.

In truth, art is sometimes viewed as a hobby or pastime, but it is capable of much more - it can be a tool for self-expression, healing, and even survival. However, due to the high expense of creating art, it's typically a choice only available to those who can afford it. For a lot of people, especially those from underprivileged or marginalized backgrounds, the idea of being an artist seems far-fetched and unreachable. It's simple to argue that "anyone can draw" or "you don't need fancy materials," but even the least expensive things have a price tag, and for some, that price is too steep.

Time and Space: The Luxury of Creative Freedom

When we consider making art, we frequently take time and space for granted, but these are two things that are necessary to access the creative well! When was the last time you sat down to create art - whether it be writing, sculpting, or drawing - without feeling hurried or preoccupied? Setting aside time for art can seem like a luxury to many, and in many respects, it is.

Now let's talk about time. Whether it's work, family responsibilities, or just the daily grind of trying to make ends meet, life has a way of keeping us occupied. For some people, particularly those who work long hours and work multiple jobs, making time for creativity seems almost impossible. Imagine trying to find the energy to start painting after working two shifts and returning home to take care of your children. It's not that the desire doesn't exist; rather, life's challenges are interfering. In this way, time becomes a valuable resource, and many people lack the luxury of being able to find those unoccupied moments to create.

Then there's space, both mental and physical. Having time to create is one thing, but where do you actually do it? Not everyone has the space in their mind to concentrate on art, let alone a desk where they may write or paint in peace. Living in a cramped, small area or worrying about money all the time does not exactly provide a conducive atmosphere for artistic expression. Those who are homeless or live paycheck to paycheck typically devote more of their mental energy to surviving than to creating. When someone's thoughts are occupied with worries about money, food, or housing, how can we expect them to concentrate on the details of a painting?

It's difficult to find mental space, even for individuals who are in stable positions. Our phones constantly ring, our to-do lists get longer, and the daily bustle of life makes it difficult to get into a creative flow. Thus, the luxury of having the time and place to sit and create is something that not everyone can afford.

Social and Cultural Barriers to Art

Just as significant as financial barriers are social and cultural ones, and they frequently go unrecognized. Creative expression is sometimes viewed as frivolous or unproductive, particularly if it deviates from the accepted notion of what constitutes "worthy" art. Honestly, how would anyone greet a homeless man wearing a shirt covered in paint and carrying a sketchbook in an elite art gallery? Probably not like the smartly dressed gallery patrons who likely browse in peace. Rather than being free to roam around like everyone else, he might face criticism, rejection, or worse, being led away. This is but a single example of how society draws arbitrary lines around who "deserves" to interact with the arts.

There's also the question of education. Many people lack access to artistic education, particularly those from marginalized communities. When money is limited, schools usually reduce art programs first, which has a significant knock-on effect. Youngsters who aren't given the chance to experiment with their creative outlets may never reach their full artistic potential. Without this exposure, they learn early on that they are not creative people at all, or worse, that the arts are not for them. This restriction can last well into adulthood, supporting the notion that art is only accessible to the wealthy and well-off who can afford the necessary time and expertise.

Creative expression is also stigmatized in some communities. There's an unwritten rule that "real men" don't paint, draw, or write poetry. Men may shun creative endeavours for fear of being judged as being soft or feminine. Potential artists may be stifled by this toxic masculinity and forced into positions that are accepted by society. There are also cultural stigmas associated with particular forms of art; what is accepted in one society may be rejected in another.

In reality, everyone should have access to art, but not everyone is inspired or accepted to create. It will need a collective movement to dismantle the deeply rooted social and cultural obstacles to creativity. Since art is a universal language, we must ensure that everyone gets the opportunity to speak it!

Conclusion: Art as a Shared Responsibility

While not everyone has access to art in all of its manifestations, it is a privilege that ought to be shared. Imagine a society in which everyone has the freedom to freely create, express, and interact through art, irrespective of their background, financial status, or social standing. That's the kind of future we should shoot for! We move closer to that objective by supporting more easily accessible artistic outlets in our communities. Every little bit helps, whether it's through acknowledging the importance of creativity in all its forms, supporting regional art initiatives, or providing supplies.

By creating artwork out of used magazines, found objects, donated and often unused art supplies we at the My Friend Dave project are contributing to the betterment of society by repurposing what others would otherwise discard. It serves as a potent reminder that originality isn't necessarily expensive. Not to mention the Alcove Center for Arts, which is breaking down boundaries and enhancing everyone's access to art! Their work demonstrates how we can encourage creativity in everyone, regardless of background or situation, by creating inclusive environments.

Ultimately, we all play a role in making art more accessible. Whether it's through large-scale advocacy or small acts of kindness, we have the power to ensure that art isn’t just for the privileged few but for anyone who wants to tap into their creative spirit!