Socialist artists invite others to exhibit work

Bad Art (Click to enlarge)

Peter Harris, Blackburn

The first edition of the 'Bad Art' magazine was produced in July 2016. It signalled the creation of a new project aiming to build from the ground up in working class neighbourhoods, to challenge capitalism's attacks on working class artists and the arts.

Many of the originators of 'Bad Art' are members of the Socialist Party, and its sister parties and co-thinkers around the world. But from the outset, we want all artists who want to fight back to take part. We believe an inclusive approach to be essential.

We fight for access to the arts for all. We want to protect art's freedom to be itself, whatever genre it falls into. But above all we fight for a world where art, artists and all working people can truly flourish; for us that is genuine socialism.

As part of the many events to commemorate the centenary of the 1917 Russian revolution, shows and art exhibitions are being organised in various regions. One such is in the Skipton area of Yorkshire, in October and November. We encourage the organising of similar events around the world.

'Bad Art' supporters in the north of England are appealing to all artists who want to join the fight to consider displaying their creative work in our exhibition. Whether it be painting, drawing, photography, collage, sculpture, poetry, drama, music, or any other medium, we would like to see what you can offer!

The work on display can be for sale, or not - but very importantly the exhibition organisers want to show as many varied types of creative work as is possible. The content does not have to be explicitly political, and we particularly want to encourage people who are not professional artists and have not exhibited before to submit their work.

If you could send me a few examples of your work, or even your ideas and a brief few words about yourself, please email [email protected].

More about socialism and the arts: badartworld.net

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The coronavirus crisis has laid bare the class character of society in numerous ways. It is making clear to many that it is the working class that keeps society running, not the CEOs of major corporations.

The results of austerity have been graphically demonstrated as public services strain to cope with the crisis.

The government has now ripped up its 'austerity' mantra and turned to policies that not long ago were denounced as socialist. But after the corona crisis, it will try to make the working class pay for it, by trying to claw back what has been given.

The Socialist Party's material is more vital than ever, so we can continue to report from workers who are fighting for better health and safety measures, against layoffs, for adequate staffing levels, etc.
When the health crisis subsides, we must be ready for the stormy events ahead and the need to arm workers' movements with a socialist programme - one which puts the health and needs of humanity before the profits of a few.